Press release
Press release
Wood selected by TotalEnergies to advance Ratawi field redevelopment in Iraq
Enhancing educational opportunities for Iraqi nationals within the energy sector is crucial for advancing the country's efforts towards achieving energy independence.
In support of this critical goal, Wood, and joint venture partner Al Majal, have officially opened the Basra Technical Training Centre (BTTC) - the first-of-its-kind vocational training facility in Iraq.
Attended by Iraqi Government officials and senior energy industry leaders, the opening event, held on 21 April, celebrated the first cohort of BTTC students, who have successfully completed a five-month pilot program.
All students will secure employment with leading Iraqi energy companies and have been awarded an ECITB International Competence: Engineering Construction (ICE) Level 2 vocational qualification in pipefitting and welding.
The next cohort, which will see students partake in a wider curriculum including accredited electrical and instrumentation courses, will begin later this year.
“Developing a local, skilled workforce is integral to our long-term commitment to Iraq. This not only supports the successful delivery of our projects but also equips individuals with the skills necessary to support some of the region’s most complex engineering projects.”
Ellis Renforth, President of Operations, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Wood
"I am immensely proud to announce the opening of our new vocational training centre in Iraq. This facility represents a significant investment in the future of our local community. We are not only fostering individual development but contributing to the economic development and prosperity of our region. Together, we are building a brighter future.”
Ali Jaffar, CEO and President Al Majal
The BTTC offers both accredited and non-accredited fee-for-service training programs to international and national oil companies in Iraq. In addition to ECITB accreditations, the facility provides CompEx training, delivered by competent trainers specializing in hazardous environment training. The centre will shortly offer IWCF (International Well Control Forum) training, which ensures the safety and success of drilling operations and sets the standards for well control in the oil and gas industry.
Wood Al Majal has also opened a new fabrication centre, providing engineered fabrication solutions to international standards including design, engineering, inspection and painting.
The Wood Al Majal joint venture leverages both expertise and local knowledge to deliver brownfield modifications across Iraq.
With 850 people delivering engineering solutions for clients in Iraq, Wood has been operating in the country for over 90 years.
Learn more about Wood in Iraq.
