CNR International announced as main sponsor of AFBE-UK Scotland’s NextGen programme

AFBE-UK Scotland has announced energy operator CNR International as the major sponsor of the social enterprise organisation’s NextGen programme.

It means CNR International is now playing a key role in supporting AFBE-UK as it works to inspire, inform and influence people who are considering a career in engineering.

CNR International has this year launched an equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) forum – driven by strong staff engagement – and held a launch event in March to showcase the work of voluntary diversity groups such AFBE-UK.

Commenting on CNR International’s participation, Barry Duncan, Vice President, Finance at CNR International, said: “It was great meeting the AFBE-UK team and learning more about its work, in particular the NextGen programme.

“We’re delighted to help support this initiative, which is perfectly aligned with our core value of being an outstanding corporate citizen as well as with the goals of our EDI Forum.

“Our approach to community investment is underpinned by building and growing a long-term relationship with organisations we support. To this end, we look forward to a long relationship with AFBE-UK and making a real difference in improving diversity within our industry.

“Given that the oil and gas industry faces a significant challenge in attracting talented youngsters, it is vital that we engage with the widest range of young people as possible to help address this issue and give more people an opportunity to embark upon a career that offers so many possibilities. The NextGen programme is a great way of doing this.”

CNR International last year supported the AFBE-UK Scotland gala, based on the theme The future of the UK oil and gas industry.

AFBE-UK Scotland’s School Outreach Manager, Dr Urenna Adegbotolu, said: “We look forward to working with CNR International in promoting STEM careers to young people. The NextGen programme will greatly benefit from the vast network of engineers looking to get involved in mentoring and volunteering work.

“NextGen has been invited to engage with over 12 schools this year and we now look forward to helping even more pupils in the Aberdeen area and beyond. We are also looking forward to working together with CNR International and its staff on several initiatives, beyond their involvement with the NextGen campaign.”

The NextGen programme sees industry professionals give up their time to highlight engineering as a career choice to school pupils.

It is one of several engagement programmes run by AFBE-UK Scotland, which promotes diversity and inclusion. It encourages all young people, particularly those of black and minority ethic (BME) origin, to consider a career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM).

The group, which has engaged with thousands of young people across Aberdeen, was established in 2011.

Related Links: AFBE-UK Scotland, CNR International