GCSG Training set sights on Fiji

The Aberdeen based and ever-growing Global Corrosion Solutions Group have set their sights on opening a training school in Fiji, South pacific.

Back in March 2021, Director Nicky Adams, was approached by Nano Tech Pacific and their director Payal Paddy, regarding the lack of knowledge and expertise on corrosion within the biggest marine port in the south pacific.

Nicky Adams informed us “After several video calls and in-depth discussions surrounding corrosion and protective coatings, it was clear that although a very developed country, Fiji, had little knowledge on these subjects”.

“What was more concerning was the realisation that when a vessel or boat required work, it would have to travel to the neighbouring countries such as Australia or New Zealand to have the work complete. We soon realised that the carbon footprint and costs of fuel etc were completely unnecessary and all that would be required was a little guidance and training”.

The global Corrosion Solutions Group are specialists in protective coatings and GCSG training is just one of the services they provide. Currently the only training company, globally, to offer courses and assessments for all industries, holding 4 of the 5 major coatings accreditations, with the 5th expected soon.

Nicky Adams Added “There are several companies already within Fiji who perform basic levels of surface preparation and application of protective coatings which includes some NACE coatings inspectors, with a few training courses and the proper supervision, it would not take long for these companies to enhance the work force and allow the work to stay within Fiji.”

OGV have followed Nicky and his company’s growth since 2018 when he acquired Aberdeen Corrosion solutions, and since then they have grown from strength to strength in the coatings industry. When asked what we should expect next from them, Director, Mr Adams, had this to say:

“Since becoming independent in 2020, we have seen a huge growth in our client base. With work popping up every day and all over the globe including Canada, Poland and now Fiji, we see our success continuing.

We are awfully close to signing an agreement with one of the biggest training providers in the world who have locations in Aberdeen, Teesside, Norway, Baku, Dubai and Doha. The plan is to now offer our services in those locations. This along with the Distribution and Services sectors means I really do not know where we will end up.

Opening a full training centre in Fiji is now something we are focusing a lot of our time on, to raise the economy in a country so far away would be a sensational achievement, and definitely something my son would be proud of when he grows up.”

"We started our basic research last year on how we wanted to establish the first ever business which would specialize in protective coating and surface preparation, with the highest level of service in industrial and commercial blasting and corrosion prevention. It didn't take long for us to realise that we needed international, professional help in order to establish such services and business for our country.

We contacted 6 different companies but GCSG Global Corrosion Solution Group, and Nicky, were highly recommended by a good friend at the Association of Materials Protection and Performance Network. Therefore we were sure that we wanted to do business with GCSG.

When I first spoke with Nicky he was very approachable and didn’t hesitate to help me with any information I needed, at any time. Whether it was calls, messages or email enquires, Nicky always took the time to help, even with the major time difference. As a Pacific island business it’s often hard for us to connect and conduct business with companies overseas but not in this case.

I’m glad that we are partnering with GCSG as it didn't matter how small our country was, Nicky was very interested in trying to help us combat this situation. Over email he was extremley honest and straight forward, it soon became clear that he was willing to assist us in every possible way to help tackle Corrosion in the South Pacific by becoming our partner in business.

Nicky also provided me with a list of machines and equipment which are very important for such business. As none of the machines mentioned were available locally, through his contact, Nicky is currently assisting us with overseas orders.

Fiji is not alone but with us is our neighboring South Pacific island nation who will be joining us in this exciting venture. With Nicky’s expertise and as a local business we will also establish the first ever Corrosion Association for the South Pacific which will work to benefit our island nation. We have planned provide week-long training seminars with practical, theory and workshops which will provide insight and training not only for industrial professionals but also for our universities and government ministries too.

Even during this time when the COVID19 pandemic is causing delays in our plan, we are optimistic and believe that we will pick up soon."

Payal Pooja Paddy, Director, Elite Crystal Car Coating Elite Nano Tech Pacific