Building a future in engineering
Three months into his Oceanscan traineeship, Charlie is already getting hands-on with specialist subsea equipment, developing practical engineering skills and learning from colleagues with decades of industry experience.
For Charlie, a career in engineering was a natural choice. Having grown up around the industry, with a family connection to engineering and a longstanding interest in electrical equipment, he was keen to find an opportunity that would allow him to turn that interest into a career.
Now three months into his traineeship at Oceanscan, he’s doing exactly that – combining practical experience in the workshop with formal learning at college as he begins his journey towards becoming a skilled engineer.
Finding the right opportunity
Before joining Oceanscan, Charlie was studying at Banff Academy, completing his National 4 and National 5 qualifications, including Design and Manufacture, Physics and Maths.
He had already had a taste of life at Oceanscan, having spent time over the school holidays helping out around the business. From supporting the stores team and handling equipment in the warehouse to helping clear the previous building ahead of the move to Oceanscan’s new Dyce facility, those early experiences gave him an insight into the company.
When the trainee opportunity came up, it felt like the right next step.
“I’ve always had an interest in engineering and electrics, especially in the subsea and offshore industries. I saw the role and thought, this is exactly what I’m looking for.”
That interest was encouraged from an early age by his dad, who was always fixing things around the house, working on electrical equipment and computers, or tinkering with broken toys.
“I’ve always liked opening things up and figuring out how they work. I’d love to get the opportunity to work offshore one day, and this is a great place to develop the skills to do that.”
Learning by doing
One of the biggest differences between his previous visits to Oceanscan and his role as a trainee is the opportunity to get directly involved in the engineering work.
Charlie has already gained exposure to different areas of the business, from supporting the stores team and preparing stock for customers to helping with NDT and subsea testing. He’s also been getting to grips with payments system SAP and communicating with suppliers to source equipment and components.
It’s the practical engineering tasks that have particularly caught his attention.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with wiring and soldering, as well as getting hands-on with the subsea equipment. There’s always something new to learn, and I’m looking forward to getting involved in even more.”
Alongside the practical experience, Charlie is continuing his formal education through college study. His current learning includes a bridging course in Maths, alongside electrical engineering studies, with day-release attendance supporting the transition into further engineering qualifications.
The combination of classroom learning and real-world experience is an important part of the programme, giving him the opportunity to develop his knowledge and apply it in the workplace.
Learning from experience
For someone at the beginning of their career, having experienced engineers on hand to share their knowledge is invaluable.
Charlie works closely with Senior Base Engineer Jack, his manager, who helps guide his day-to-day development. He also looks to more experienced colleagues such as Group Technical Manager Rob Ross for inspiration as he considers where he would like to be further down the line, and Christian, a trainee who joined the business earlier, as an example of the progress he hopes to make in the shorter term during the trainee scheme.
“It’s really interesting hearing everyone’s stories and experiences with the equipment. You pick up little tips, learn things you wouldn’t necessarily find in a textbook and hear some funny stories along the way!
“It’s also reassuring to know there’s always someone around to support you. Whether I’ve got a question, need a bit of help or make a mistake, I know I’ve got a good team behind me.”
That supportive environment has helped Charlie settle into the business quickly. And with a modern workshop, an on-site gym and opportunities to get involved in the team’s social activities – including the lunchtime and after-work pool league – there’s plenty happening beyond the day job, too.
Looking ahead
Over the coming months, Charlie is keen to broaden his experience further, gaining a better understanding of calibration and exploring other areas of the business, including potentially sales. While he expects to spend much of his time in the workshop, he recognises the value of understanding how the different teams work together to support customers.
In the longer term, he’d love to progress towards working offshore, while continuing to develop his technical knowledge and confidence.
“I can see myself being at Oceanscan for a good while. I’d love to keep climbing, growing my knowledge and confidence, and perhaps move offshore when I’m a little older.”
For anyone considering a similar route into engineering, his advice is straightforward: make the most of the opportunities available to you and don’t let nerves hold you back.
“Don’t worry too much about the open day or interview. Be calm, be yourself and be kind – they’ll notice that. And make the most of school and your studies before you leave.”
Charlie’s journey is just getting started, but with a genuine passion for engineering, an eagerness to learn and a team ready to support him, he’s building a strong foundation for the future.
