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Engineering a Sustainable Future and Nurturing Talent on the Isle of Wight
Vestas Offshore Wind Blades UK Ltd, based in the heart of the Isle of Wight, stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainable growth in the global wind industry.
A company deeply invested in nurturing talent and fostering a culture of inclusivity and excellence. With a history of over 40 years, Vestas has installed over 173 GW of wind turbines in 88 countries, significantly contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions worldwide. The company has recently been recognised as the most sustainable company in the energy industry for the second year running – an accolade that they do not take lightly.
The Isle of Wight facility, a critical hub in Vestas' operations, is dedicated to manufacturing blades for the V174 – 9.5 MW offshore wind turbine. These blades, each at an impressive 85 meters long, underpin the blend of engineering prowess and commitment to renewable energy that defines Vestas. The facility operates around the clock, supported by a skilled workforce of 605 people, delivering renewable energy solutions globally.
‘Like most businesses today, VESTAS has adopted a core set of values that we live and work by’:
• Simplicity – We strive to simplify our work and our solutions for the benefit of all.
• Collaboration – We win and lose together, picking the best team for the job.
• Accountability – We have the courage to speak up and deliver on our commitments.
• Passion – We are dedicated to our planet, people & Vestas.
At the core of Vestas' philosophy is the emphasis on employee development and well-being through their Employee Engagement & Wellbeing Program (EEWP) & Engagement Plan. The company champions a comprehensive training and professional development programme for all its employees across various functions. This emphasis is not just on job-specific skills but extends to broader areas like leadership and mental health awareness. This dedication to workforce development has seen Vestas investing over £550,000 in training and developing new and existing employees in 2023 alone, with a significant number of courses offered both in-house and through external providers. The partnership with local colleges like CECAMM and HTP has further strengthened Vestas' commitment to community and educational engagement, enhancing professional skills, and the company on the Island is proud to have provided staff globally in support of the business with IOW staff working extensively in Denmark, Italy, Spain, Ireland & Saudi Arabia.
“A comprehensive induction with regular review ensures employees receive the correct training and support they need to do their job properly. Happy and motivated employees build high-quality blades. Turnover is reduced and these costs can instead be reinvested back into our people. Blades UK also invests in training beyond the requirements of the job further widening an individual’s knowledge and skills. We take regular intakes of up to 12 people with no previous experience in engineering, and succession planning, and the mapping of career progression were key focuses in 2023 and are measured KPIs in our Strategy Deployment.”
Vestas has also made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion within its ranks. Initiatives like W.O.W. (Women Of Wind) demonstrate a firm commitment to addressing gender disparities in the wind energy sector. With various activities and networking events, the company is actively creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the industry, aiming to increase the number of women in leadership positions.
The facility's recent transition to producing the V174-9.5MW type blade has not only optimised its manufacturing process but also demonstrated flexibility and responsiveness to industry demands. This adaptability, coupled with a clear focus on sustainability and safety, places Vestas at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. The development of the V236 turbine is a testament to their ongoing innovation and pursuit of excellence in wind technology, and a key objective for the V236 is offshore scalability.
For individuals seeking a career that combines cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and personal growth, Vestas presents an unparalleled opportunity. The company is not just a workplace but a connected community where innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability are not just spoken about but actively lived out. It's an invitation to be part of a team that is shaping a greener future, right at the heart of the highly skilled global engineering industry.
HTP continues to work in partnership with Blades UK on their staff development programme, through gaining nationally recognised Apprenticeships.
