ExxonMobil Guyana Technical Training Manager Jewel Collier-Swan said building a world-class Guyanese workforce will depend on developing technical expertise and ensuring local talent can progress within the energy sector.
During her address at the launch of MODEC’s development programs on July 20, Collier-Swan emphasized that local content is ultimately about creating opportunities for Guyanese to build careers, not only secure jobs.
“We must give opportunities for them [Guyanese] to grow, learn, and gain experience that will allow them to advance; we must be intentional about building the technical expertise, the professional competencies, and the leadership capabilities that our country will need to use ahead,” she said.
Collier-Swan pointed to technical training institutions, such as the Guyana Technical Training College Inc. (GTTCI), as important parts of building that expertise by providing students with industry-focused education and the practical skills needed for energy sector roles.
She explained that graduates from local technical programs are already demonstrating their capabilities.
“Approximately 20% of the graduates at GTTCI are young, and we want to see that number increase. We want more young girls. We want more females to pursue energy in all areas of the sector…The goal is clear. We [ExxonMobil] want to help build a world-class Guyanese workforce,” she said.
The Port Mourant-based institution offers programs in areas including mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and production disciplines that support offshore operations.
GTTCI also operates specialized training facilities, including the Facility Simulator (FacTor), which provides students with practical exposure to offshore production systems in a controlled environment.
The facility was developed through a partnership between the Guyana government, ExxonMobil Guyana, SBM Offshore Guyana and LearnCorp International.
