From left: Instructor Arnt Olav Seglem, Energy Innovation, together with the participants.
A collaborative effort between local industries, NAV (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration), the municipalities of Eigersund and Bjerkreim, and Energy Innovation has made it possible for eight Ukrainian refugees to embark on a structured training program that will secure them jobs in the Norwegian energy and industrial sectors.
Launched exactly three years after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, this initiative is more than just a training program—it’s a pathway to employment, integration, and self-sufficiency for refugees who are eager to contribute to society and build a future in Norway.
A 35-Day Course Focused on Safety, Skills, and Language
The program, conducted at Egersund Energy Hub, is designed to provide refugees with essential industry skills, valid certifications, and workplace readiness training.
The curriculum covers:
✔ Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE): First aid, fire awareness, sea survival, working at heights, fall protection, electrical safety, hot works, basic ergonomics, manual handling, slinger signaler and crane & hoist.
✔ Technical Skills: Introduction to mechanics, hydraulics, electronics and bolt tightening.
✔ Workplace Language Training: Norwegian technical terms and workplace regulations
By combining hands-on technical education with language immersion and safety training, the course equips participants with recognized industry certifications, increasing their employability in Norway’s growing renewable energy and industrial sectors.
Guaranteed Employment for Participants
Unlike many training programs, this initiative ensures that all participants have a secured work contract before starting the course. This means that by the time they complete the 35-day training, they will be ready to transition directly into employment with local companies in need of skilled workers.
The participating companies—including ReXoR Marine, Dalane Anleggservice and Pelagia Egersund Seafood —have committed to providing opportunities for these skilled workers with the aim of securing long-term employment.
A Win-Win for Refugees, Businesses, and Society
This initiative is not just about training—it’s about creating opportunities, strengthening the local economy, and supporting social integration. Programs like this:
✅ Address Norway’s labor shortages in energy and technical trades
✅ Reduce welfare dependency and increase tax contributions
✅ Foster social inclusion and economic independence for refugees
✅ Support the green transition by providing trained workers for the renewable energy sector
With support from NAV, businesses benefit from wage subsidies (up to 40% for six months) and mentor support, making it easier to onboard new employees and reduce financial risk.
A Model for the Future
The success of this pilot program demonstrates that structured training, industry collaboration, and targeted support can lead to sustainable employment solutions for refugees and other marginalized groups. The program is based on the onboarding program for NEET’s (Not in Employment, Education or Training) that Energy Innovation and NAV has been running for four years, with very good results.
At Energy Innovation, we are proud to play a role in empowering individuals, strengthening industries, and building a more inclusive and sustainable workforce.
🔥 This is more than just training—this is about changing lives.
We are already working with more companies interested to take part of a second round with this program. Don’t hesitate tomato contact if your company is interested to join the program.
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