Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone chairman Nick Bourne gives his monthly update.

“ONE of the guiding principles behind the setting up of the Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone was its potential to build upon the region’s growing reputation as the ‘new energy capital’ of the UK.

“With around 25% of the UK's energy supplies now coming via Pembrokeshire, we are well placed to exploit this growing market.

“More than 850,000 people work in the UK energy sector and by 2025 Wales aims to be energy self-sufficient, promoting the use of wind, marine, solar and biomass in particular.

“If we are to take advantage of that potential growth here in Pembrokeshire we will need to have a skilled workforce to service the industry.

“Myself and all the members of the enterprise zone board want to see as many local people as possible take advantage of those opportunities.

“This week Careers Wales are holding an event in Pembroke Dock on the opportunities to work in the energy, maritime and engineering sectors.

“Employers, apprentices and graduates will be there, from Murco Petroleum Ltd, Valero to Dragon LNG, Main Port 1990 Engineering Ltd, Tidal Energy Ltd, Marine Energy Pembrokeshire, Port Authority, Genpower Ltd and others.

“I hope this will inform and inspire local people to consider a career in these areas. The event will be held at the Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock, SA72 6UN on Thursday, March 27, between 5pm and 7pm.

“Developing a skilled workforce is high on the agenda of the Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone and for that reason I am very pleased to announce that Sharron Lusher, principal of Pembrokeshire College, has agreed to join the Enterprise Zone board. Born in Narberth and with more than 16 years experience in further education, Sharron will provide valuable input in this area.

“I am also delighted to announce that she will be joined by Ed Tomp of Valero. Ed is responsible for the safe, reliable and efficient operation of Valero’s Pembroke Refinery.

“Prior to joining Valero in 2011, Ed worked in the petroleum refining industry in several positions across the USA and in Australia and the UK. Both will bring a wealth of experience and new ideas to the board.

“They will join Chris Davies, Ted Sangster, Jane James, John Foster Thomas, John Llewellyn, and Margaret Llewellyn to make up a very strong board to drive forward the enterprise zone.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Colin Orr-Burns, of Dragon LNG, for his contribution to the enterprise zone. Colin has left the board as he is taking up a new post in Reading.”