From Classroom to Industry

THREE60 Energy is delighted to have been involved in the Industrial Cadets Gold Project again this year as the scheme celebrated its 40th anniversary. Launched in 1984, the Industrial Cadets Gold Mentored Projects have been providing young people with the opportunity to connect directly with industry for 40 years. This well-established programme, allows Year 12 and S5/6 students to gain valuable insight into the world of work through 50 hours of project-based work experience. During this time, students tackle real sector problems while being mentored by industry professionals.

This year, S6 students from Lochside Academy under the guidance of THREE60’s Graduate Process Engineer, Andrew Bain, participated in the ‘Industrial Cadets – Gold Project’ from October 2024 to March 2025. The aim was for students to develop technical and workplace skills, collaborate in teams, and build on their planning and presentation skills. The award is nationally recognised, enhancing the students’ CVs for apprenticeship or university applications.

Andrew set the industrial challenge for the students, they were tasked with investigating different decarbonisation techniques and how they can be applied to the offshore energy sector. The students explored options such as sustainable material selections (green steel), flaring alternatives, gas reinjection, and CCS. This challenge was selected in line with THREE60’s sustainability approach, raising the students’ awareness of sustainable engineering and preparing them for future projects they may encounter at university or in professional settings.

The project requirements included writing a 12-page report, creating a 3D model (CAD or physical), and delivering a 10-minute presentation. The students also visited Robert Gordon University to meet with industry experts and toured THREE60’s HQ at Annan House.

THREE60 has been the industrial partner to Lochside Academy for the past three years. Andrew Mackay, now a THREE60 Graduate Mechanical Engineer, was a student participant in the first year of this collaboration.

Andrew Bain attended weekly meetings at the school to provide support, answer questions, and review the students’ work. On March 14th, the students visited Annan House to learn about THREE60’s operations and presented their research to THREE60’s Engineering Director, Gareth Broxton. Gareth and Andrew attended the celebration in Edinburgh to support the students.

The Industrial Cadets Gold Project continues to be a valuable initiative, fostering the development of future engineers and strengthening the connection between industry and education.