The Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Engineering Technician Apprenticeship offers the opportunity to become a highly skilled NDT Engineering Technician working on a full range of static and pressurised equipment, such as vessels, heat exchangers, storage tanks, and the network of pipelines at Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery.
The programme, which lasts from between 36 to 42 months, will see Apprentices based at HETA’s facility for the first year, with the remainder of the apprenticeship based on site at Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery.
A vital role in meeting future challenges
Non-destructive testing is a testing and analysis technique used by industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component, structure or system for characteristic differences or welding defects without causing damage to the original part. These testing techniques include radiography, ultrasonics and penetrant testing, all vital for the safe and reliable running of the refinery and industrial sites.
Luc Smets, general manager at Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery, commented: “The foundations for transforming Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery into a low carbon refinery for the next generation are in place, and our commitment is strong to deliver. So is our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we operate in.
“As we embark on our low carbon transition, it is essential we have the right people and skills supporting our next generation transition. Apprenticeships are a great route for enabling local people to gain the experiences and qualifications to support our energy transition and be at the heart of that journey with us, as they begin their own career paths.
“We are delighted to be working with HETA on our trade apprenticeships and delivering the first non-destructive testing apprenticeships in the region.”
Overcoming a skill deficit
Iain Elliott, CEO at HETA, added: “We are absolutely delighted to be working closely with Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery on this exciting and innovative approach to developing non-destructive testing engineers. Our core ethos, since our formation in 1967, is to listen to the requirements of employers and support them in achieving their skills ambitions.
“With research suggesting that the pool of highly skilled engineers is diminishing year on year, apprenticeships are the perfect solution to ensuring that Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery has the skills required in their workforce to meet the challenges of the future.”
To find out more about HETA’s Apprenticeships in the region, visit www.heta.co.uk/engineering-apprenticeships.