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The Engineering Skillnet is delighted to spearhead a multi-stakeholder member-lead, community-based response to equip fishermen for high-skills roles. The 8-month programme included certified electrical fault-finding and circuitry training (practical) with a bespoke 3D printing and prototyping course.

All training was either delivered locally in-person in the Castletownbere community or through virtual courses that were easy to self-pace around part-time jobs and fishing conditions.

The programme began with a course in inverter repair to increase maintenance skills of offshore vessels. The foundational electrical course embedded systematic troubleshooting methodologies to support remote fault-finding in future.

Trainers were extremely impressed by the level of the strong hands-on skills and deep knowledge of the sea. The economic value of "sea legs" should also be recognised, particularly for retrieval and repair of intelligent buoys, collecting valuable geospatial data.  "The blended cadence (live sessions plus self‑directed learning) suited hands‑on participants and built momentum towards an in‑person demo day where each participant presented prototype outcomes. Attendance and punctuality were consistent, mentoring slots were fully utilised, and final presentations showed sustained commitment.

"Fishermen were encouraged to participate as able to apply the new skills immediately on their own boats and the broader maritime sector including port-based engineering companies.

A key outcome was renewed confidence in learning as for many, it had been years since structured training"

To showcase enhanced skills and the innovation talent, a final Demonstration Day gave an opportunity for learners to present their final prototype jigs and casings. Other training included Globa Wind Organisation-certified training to work safely at height.

In summary, the programme supplies skilled, safety‑conscious workers for renewable projects, enhances innovation and efficiency within smaller marine firms, and strengthens the regional supply chain by keeping coastal communities engaged in emerging industries.

We would like to thank the local Educational Training Board for hosting some of the training and Bord Iascaigh Mhara for their knowledge sharing and local introductions. We look forward to seeing other coastal communities establish local skills groups and prepare for Blue Economy opportunities.