The Group’s Green Energy department secured the accolade at the fifth annual Global Offshore Wind Awards, an event celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership within the UK and international offshore wind industry. DN Colleges Group was a finalist in the ‘Powering the Future Workforce’ category. The ceremony, held in London on Tuesday 13 October 2027, convened leading global organisations from the sector.
This award acknowledges DN Colleges Group’s dedication to nurturing skilled professionals through its specialised green energy training and apprenticeship initiatives. In collaboration with industry leaders such as Siemens Energy, Ørsted, OEG, and GEV Wind Power, the college offers a comprehensive apprenticeship programme. This initiative is specifically designed to prepare aspiring wind turbine maintenance engineers for successful careers.
The programme features immersive, hands-on training utilising state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated learning facilities. Apprentices receive structured support to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence from the start of their professional journeys. Its strong alignment with regional economic strategies and national objectives, including Net Zero targets, green job creation, and advanced manufacturing, was particularly noted.
By providing learners with essential technical expertise, DN Colleges Group is reinforcing the Humber region's status as the UK’s premier offshore wind cluster. This effort supports the area's ongoing expansion as a hub for renewable energy and innovation. Steven Stark, Curriculum Leader for Green Energy Manufacturing Apprenticeships at DN Colleges Group, accepted the award.
“"We’re incredibly fortunate to have such a fantastic team, whose hard work, dedication and professionalism have made this award possible. We’re equally grateful to our outstanding employer partners, whose continued support has provided the foundations for our department to grow from strength to strength. This recognition feels like the beginning of something truly special for the college and highlights the importance of the work we do. Above all, this award is for our apprentices, whose commitment, ambition and relentless drive to succeed continue to inspire us. Without them, none of this would be possible."
The achievement underscores the critical role of collaboration between educational institutions and industry in addressing skills gaps, generating career prospects, and ensuring the UK possesses the skilled workforce essential for the clean energy transition. Through its robust partnerships with sector-leading employers, DN Colleges Group continues to be instrumental in bridging education with industry demands, supporting local communities, and fostering a skilled, sustainable workforce for the future.
