During his visit, Mr Flynn met students from Dundee & Angus College’s Futures in Offshore Wind course who have successfully secured apprenticeships with leading wind turbine manufacturer Vestas, demonstrating the value of connecting young people with practical training, industry experience, and clear pathways into employment.

The minister heard from the students about their experiences on the Futures in Offshore Wind course, the skills and knowledge they have developed, and how the programme has helped them make their transition into employment and apprenticeships.

The visit also included a tour of Customs House, where the dedicated renewables training facility will be housed, providing specialist facilities and training programmes to develop the skilled workforce required to support Scotland’s rapidly expanding offshore wind sector.

Economy secretary Stephen Flynn said: “I was delighted to visit Montrose Port Authority and see the progress of the Skills Academy which will help produce the next cohort of talented workers for the expanding renewable energy sector.

“Meeting students who have already benefitted from the academy demonstrated why it is vital in to invest in the talent of the future. That’s why the Scottish Government has pledged £1.25 million through the Tay Cities Industrial Investment Programme to develop the Skills Academy.

“The collaborative approach between the Scottish Government, Angus Council, Montrose Port Authority and Dundee & Angus College benefits young people with vital training which improves their opportunities in the offshore wind sector.”

The academy is designed to play a key role in strengthening Montrose Port’s position as a hub for renewable energy activity, with a particular focus on operations and maintenance services for offshore wind farms.

Angus Council leader, Councillor George Meechan, said: “The Montrose Port Skills Academy is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local partners work together around a shared ambition for Angus and the wider region.

“It is particularly encouraging to see the success of the first cohort, with students already going on to secure apprenticeships. Their achievements demonstrate the real impact that targeted training and strong links with industry can have in opening up exciting career opportunities.

“The academy will continue to play an important role in supporting the growth of the renewable energy sector at Montrose Port, while helping to drive higher-value employment, attract investment and deliver sustainable economic growth across Angus and the wider Tay region.”

Plans for the facility include a dedicated training room and workshop space supporting both formal learning and industry-led training across mechanical, electrical and hydraulic disciplines. Its flexible design will also allow for bespoke training for operations and maintenance teams based at the port, helping to futureproof the facility and ensure it can respond to the evolving needs of the renewable energy industry.

Julie Grace, vice principal, curriculum & partnerships at Dundee & Angus College, said: “It is fantastic to see the success of our first Futures in Offshore Wind cohort, with six learners now progressing into apprenticeships with Vestas. Their achievement is a powerful example of how industry-informed education and strong partnerships can create genuine pathways into rewarding careers.

“The Montrose Port Skills Academy will build on this success by bringing together education, industry and public sector partners to provide the specialist skills needed for Scotland’s growing offshore wind sector. We are proud to be helping create opportunities for local people to develop the skills and experience they need to play a part in Scotland’s renewable energy future.”