The UK is standing at the edge of the biggest energy shift in its modern history. Offshore wind is growing faster than any other part of the energy sector and the demand for skilled workers has never been higher. Turbines are rising along coastlines, new maintenance vessels are being launched and investment in wind projects is accelerating across Scotland and the rest of the UK.

As the sector expands, one qualification has become essential for anyone who wants to build a career in renewables. GWO certification. At Stream Marine Training (SMT), we have seen a huge rise in the number of people choosing GWO courses as their next step. Some come from oil and gas, some from maritime work, and many come from trades such as electricians, joiners, mechanics and plumbers.

The reason is simple. Wind energy needs skilled workers, and it needs them now.

The UK’s Renewable Energy Plan

The UK Government has committed to major offshore wind growth in the coming years. Scotland in particular is central to that plan, with vast renewable potential along the Atlantic and North Sea.

New offshore wind farms require thousands of technicians, vessel crew members, inspectors, supervisors and support roles. Many of these jobs simply cannot be automated. They depend on hands-on skill, practical awareness and a strong safety culture.

This is why the wind industry is actively welcoming people from traditional trades and other offshore sectors. The knowledge and experience already exist. GWO certification helps people transfer safely and confidently into this new environment.

What is GWO Training

The Global Wind Organisation (GWO) sets the standard for safety training in the wind industry. GWO certification ensures that anyone working on or around turbines has the skills needed to operate safely and respond effectively to emergencies.

At SMT, we deliver the core packages that employers look for:

GWO Basic Safety Training (BST)

Includes:

  • Working at Height

  • Sea Survival

  • Manual Handling

  • Fire Awareness

  • First Aid

GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT)

Ideal for people with mechanical or electrical skills. Includes:

  • Electrical knowledge

  • Mechanical systems

  • Hydraulics fundamentals

GWO Working at Height and GWO Sea Survival Standalone Modules

For those who need specific certification without the full package.

These courses are recognised across the UK and Europe, making it easier for workers to move between projects and opportunities.

Why the Wind Industry Needs Skilled Workers

Wind turbines are complex machines that rely on a blend of engineering skill, physical ability and problem solving. The industry needs workers who can:

  • Work safely at height

  • Understand mechanical and electrical systems

  • Handle tools and equipment with confidence

  • Operate in offshore environments

  • Respond calmly during emergencies

This is why tradespeople are in such high demand. Their existing ability transfers extremely well to offshore wind. With GWO certification, they gain the safety training needed to step straight into a new role.

A Career Path with Real Potential

For many workers, GWO training is not just a qualification. It is a doorway to a stable and well paid career.

Offshore wind offers:

  • Long-term job security

  • Competitive salaries

  • Opportunities for progression

  • The chance to work in a growing, future-focused industry

  • Roles both at sea and on land

With new wind farms planned across the UK, the need for certified workers will continue to rise for years to come.

How SMT Supports Your Transition

At Stream Marine Training, our GWO courses are designed to be practical, engaging and welcoming for people from all backgrounds. Our instructors have real offshore and technical experience, which means the training feels both realistic and achievable.

We regularly train:

  • Electricians

  • Joiners

  • Mechanics

  • Plumbers

  • Fabricators

  • Offshore oil and gas workers

  • Maritime crew

All of them arrive with valuable skills. GWO training helps them match those skills to the demands of wind energy.

Our location beside Glasgow Airport makes it easy for trainees from across the UK and abroad to train with us. Many delegates complete their GWO and OPITO courses in the same week, creating flexible career options across multiple energy sectors.

Recap

The UK needs skilled workers to support its renewable energy future and offshore wind is leading the way. GWO training gives people the safety and technical knowledge required to join this fast growing industry.

Whether you are an experienced offshore worker or someone from a trade looking for a new direction, the wind sector offers real opportunity. At SMT, we are here to help you take that step with confidence.

FAQs

Who can take GWO training
Anyone planning to work in the wind industry. This includes offshore workers, tradespeople and new entrants looking for a career change.

Do I need technical experience to join the wind sector
No. GWO BST is open to all. Technical roles may benefit from prior electrical or mechanical knowledge.

Are GWO jobs well paid
Yes. Offshore wind roles offer strong salaries and long-term stability due to ongoing wind farm expansion.

Can I complete GWO and OPITO training together
Yes. Many SMT delegates complete both to increase flexibility across offshore sectors.