The Isle of Wight’s economy has been given a boost thanks to a further recruitment drive by MHI Vestas Offshore Wind (MVOW), manufacturers of blades for offshore wind turbines.
As part of this further recruitment drive MVOW held a jobs fair back in November that was attended by over 500 men and women from across the island – partially thanks to the power of advertising through Island Echo. The company were looking to fill a range of positions including production operatives, warehouse operatives, equipment maintenance technicians, group leads, quality technicians, and a logistics buyer/call-off. Of the 500 attendees, 70 people were selected to join the MVOW team and have now started work at the facility.
MVOW have added an extra shift to operation to meet the demand and fulfil new orders.
The desire to expand the workforce at the facility has been driven by an increase in demand for the 80 metre blades used on the world’s most powerful wind turbine, the V164 8.0MW TurbineTM. The V164-8.0MW produces enough electricity in a single rotation from one individual turbine to power an average UK household for 29 hours (13,3 KWh).
James Luter, Production Director at MVOW said:
“The response to the jobs fair and quality of subsequent applicants has reinforced our belief that the Isle of Wight is the ideal place for our production operation, and indeed for any advanced manufacturer. We’ve been delighted by the level of enthusiasm and skills of the applicants.”
Don Wild from Bembridge attended the jobs fair and has subsequently been employed by MVOW. Don said:
“The induction process has been great and the ongoing training is proving to be excellent. The job is going well and I would like to think that over time I can move up the ladder within the company.”
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MVOW were also keen to give Islanders the chance to visit their facility and find out more about the company. James added:
“By running a jobs fair, rather than rely solely on advertisements or recruitment sites, we were able to physically meet people, answer their questions and give them an insight into what we do, and the way we work, and demonstrate the benefits of joining our team.”
