Oil & Gas UK in conjunction with OPITO The Oil & Gas Academy and the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) are currently working on a joint initiative to develop a new professional development pathway for supply chain practitioners. The new scheme will be targeted at those already working in the UK oil and gas sector and those considering entering the industry.

This new education programme seeks to tackle the industry’s skills shortage, one of the key challenges the oil and gas sector faces. Being able to offer a structured pathway with multiple entry points which align with NVQ levels is vital to attract people into the industry. In addition, this new education pathway will also cater for the development needs of those already within the sector and wishing to embark on a professional development route. The discipline of supply chain management is crucial to the efficient and effective working within our industry.

The new education scheme will offer a flexible mode of taught delivery with most of its modules being available by distance learning on-line/e-learning using the virtual campus concept.  Taught sessions will also be available, where appropriate.  Entry onto the scheme will be dependent on existing experience, qualifications and competencies achieved to date as measured against a competency matrix. The scheme ladder will enable progression to become full corporate members of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, the attainment of which opens up significant cross industry opportunities.

The new pathway has been launched. For more information please see the OPITO - The Oil & Gas Academy website.