New Buckie wind farm base offers huge STEM career options for women, says Buckie councillor
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THE new wind farm base being constructed in Buckie could offer huge opportunities for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) careers, a local councillor has stated.
Councillor Sonya Warren, who is a former Moray Council education committee chairwoman and runs Gateway Control Systems near Buckie, spoke out following the recent groundbreaking ceremony for Ocean Winds' new Buckie base which will service the Moray West offshore wind farm.
She said: "It's something very close to my heart to, especially given the nature of the family business.
"Over the years we have had a few girls on work placements, with one going onto Opito. However, with all the apprenticeships we've had completed, not one has been a girl. I'm aware of Forsyth's having a female draughtsman in Buckie, but again numbers are low.
"However, it's also a subject I asked Roger McMichael about at the official start to the construction phase at Ocean Winds' new premises at Buckie Harbour.
"There are many jobs and training opportunities on the cards here in Buckie. I was interested to learn how many females had applied for the posts already filled, and how females can be encouraged to step into these good jobs in the future. It's my understanding that to date the posts have all been filled by males, but the numbers of females applying is low.
"It's hoped that Ocean Winds will develop good working relationships with the local schools, perhaps having visits from classes, and potential work experience and career ready placements.
"There are fabulous opportunities at all levels developing in Buckie. Hopefully many of the girls can be encouraged into STEM through these links. The primary school pupils of today will be the workers in these jobs in 15 and 20 years time."
A total of 60 high skilled, well-paid jobs are set to be created at the Operations and Maintenance base, which is being built on the site of the former harbour office. It is expected to be up and running next summer.
