Press release
Press release
Wood boosts North Sea operations with triple extension awards
From 19 to 22 July, Aberdeen is a host port for the annual Tall Ships Races. The Tall Ships have a rich history of bringing together communities, celebrating maritime heritage and fostering international friendship and understanding. Similarly, Wood has a long-standing commitment to the regions in which it operates, no more so than in Aberdeen, where it has deep roots and a significant presence.
Wood has been a cornerstone of the Aberdeen community for decades, contributing to the region's development, supporting its maritime and energy industries and providing fulfilling careers for local people.
While the Tall Ships honour the past, they also look to the future by inspiring young people to pursue careers in maritime industries. At Wood, we share this forward-looking vision and are at the forefront of the energy transition. By leveraging our extensive expertise and innovative technologies, we are committed to helping clients reduce their carbon intensity, increase production efficiency and lower operating costs, ultimately driving the transition towards a sustainable future
Wood is actively involved in projects that support the shift towards renewable energy sources, including flare gas recovery at the Elgin-Franklin field in the Central North Sea and delivering over 1,600 early phase studies globally for hydrogen and carbon capture and storage (CCUS) projects. Additionally, Wood is supporting the flagship Net Zero Teesside Power and Northern Endurance Partnership carbon capture and storage projects. These projects not only contribute to a more sustainable future but also create new opportunities for local communities.
Investing in our people
At Wood, our people are our greatest asset and we are committed to their growth and development. From technical training and leadership development to our award-winning graduate programme, we provide our employees with the tools they need to excel in their roles.
Steve Nicol, Executive President, Operations:
“We attract and inspire the brightest minds to drive our sustainable solutions and tackle some of the world's most complex energy projects. The career opportunities at Wood are endless and we look forward to welcoming new graduates and apprentices later this year.”
Since 2022, the number of graduate applications in the UK has quadrupled, with over 16,000 early career professionals expressing interest in joining Wood. Notably, 45% of our applicants are female which is more than double the industry benchmark. This remarkable growth guarantees a continuous flow of high-quality candidates, securing the future workforce for our engineering projects and ensuring a strong pipeline of future talent.
Wood's apprenticeship programme in the UK offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals to kick-start their careers while gaining practical experience and valuable qualifications. Our apprentices work alongside experienced professionals, learning industry-relevant skills and contributing to meaningful projects.
Josie Armin, Graduate Piping Engineer, Stockton:
“One of my proudest achievements as a graduate engineer was working on the construction site at Renew ELP in Teesside during my first year. Being part of a major project so early in my career really helped build my confidence and gave me hands-on experience that I’ll always value.”
Harry Hooton, Pipefitter Apprentice, Humberside:
"Being an apprentice at Wood is very enjoyable. I receive endless support and since joining Wood I have excelled in my practical and theory work. Being able to work alongside with many skilled tradesmen while I'm serving my time has been the key to successful learning. I find coming to work and learning a trade at Wood is very rewarding."
Nicol Wood, Graduate Project Controller, Aberdeen:
"As a graduate at Wood, I have had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects across various service areas, which has significantly increased my understanding of both the business itself and the industries in which we operate.
"Wood’s large graduate and early careers community is great, creating strong connections and networks throughout the organisation. The business supports a variety of events both within and outside the workplace and is committed to providing ample opportunities for personal and professional development.
"I have gained new skills and grown in confidence. Much of this is down to the support and guidance provided by experienced colleagues, who are happy to offer advice and mentoring to help you progress in your career."
Fraser Strachan, Graduate Project Controller, Aberdeen:
“The Wood graduate scheme has been an amazing way to kickstart my career. From day one I’ve been surrounded by some of the most experienced industry professionals and had access to a wealth of knowledge and mentorship that has accelerated my growth. I have also gained exposure to many unique and complex projects whilst working with the largest clients, allowing me to expand my network of key stakeholder connections throughout the UK and beyond.”
Teigan Morrison, Early Technician, St Fergus Gas Terminal:
“I’m a practical learner so the ability to mix classroom learning with practical workshops and onsite experience appealed to me.”
This year, new graduates and apprentices will join Wood’s team across the UK in our Aberdeen, Glasgow, Hull, Staines and Stockton offices.
Committed to our communities
Wood is deeply embedded in the Aberdeen community, supporting local good causes, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) initiatives and employment opportunities.
Through raffles, bake sales, golf days, auctions and spectacular dinner dances, the team in Aberdeen has focused recent efforts on supporting four very deserving local charities.
This year, over £100,000 was raised for AberNecessities’ Bright Future Project with the funds being used to transform a double-decker bus into a mobile mini-market, delivering breakfast, after-school snacks and essential school supplies to underprivileged schools across the city.
Previously, a combined total of nearly £250,000 was raised for Sue Ryder’s Dee Court Appeal, Charlie House’s Big Build Appeal and Maggie’s Cost-of-Living Campaign.
Over recent years, UK-wide Wood early careers teams have participated in the King’s Trust Million Makers entrepreneurial fundraising challenge to improve the lives of young people, allowing them access to education, employment and training opportunities. In 2024, the Wood team was nominated for the Dream Team Award after raising £10,500 by hosting various events including a football tournament and Aberdeen vs Houston office cycling challenge.
Chloe Henderson, Human Resources Graduate, Aberdeen:
“Fundraising for the King's Trust has been more than just an achievement, it has been a deeply rewarding experience. It has taught us invaluable lessons about creativity, resilience, and the importance of giving back.”
Just as the Tall Ships Races continue to inspire and bring together communities, Wood remains committed to Aberdeen and its people. By supporting local initiatives, investing in renewable energy projects and fostering the next generation of talent, Wood is not only preserving the region's rich maritime and energy heritage but also paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future.
