How JDR is powering skills, communities and the UK energy transition
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Empowering people and communities: JDR’s social commitment to the UK energy transition
Technology is central to the UK’s energy transition, and as a supplier of subsea cable systems, we’re helping to connect renewable projects that will power the nation for decades to come. But recent developments, particularly Allocation Round 7’s (AR7) Clean Industry Bonus (CIB), underline that social considerations now sit alongside environmental and technological ones as core requirements for delivering the UK’s energy future. Under AR7, developers must now invest in supply-chain capacity and facilities located in UK economically disadvantaged regions. It’s a clear signal that social impact is becoming a formal part of energy policy, and likely the beginning of a much wider shift in how offshore wind is delivered.
The UK cannot meet its offshore wind ambitions without strong local talent, resilient communities and supply chains embedded in the regions that host this industry. At JDR, we’re helping to build those foundations in places such as Hartlepool and Blyth by investing in training, supporting community initiatives and creating skilled jobs that strengthen local economies while contributing directly to UK offshore wind targets.
Investing in the future of the offshore wind industry
The demand for renewable energy talent is accelerating, with DESNZ estimating that the offshore and onshore wind sectors could support up to 145,000 direct and indirect job across the UK by the end of the decade. To support in building that talent, JDR works closely with local colleges, training providers and Connect Northumberland to support skills development, bring young people into STEM subjects and build a pipeline of future talent for the industry.
For over a decade, we’ve partnered with local education providers such as Hartlepool College, Teesside University and Newcastle College to provide high-quality technical training and apprenticeship opportunities, giving local people access to careers in offshore wind and subsea cable manufacturing. Our more recent engagement with the Energy Central Learning Campus in Blyth is a prime example of how we are collaborating at local level to equip the next generation with the specialist skills needed to grow the UK’s offshore energy supply chain.
Developing our own people
This skills pipeline feeds directly into our own operations, which rely on a highly capable and well-trained workforce. That’s why we’re committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where every employee feels valued and can grow. Many of our people have built long careers here; some for 15 or 20 years. As examples we have:
- Jayne Gough joined us six years ago in a role reviewing contracts and now leads JDR’s legal team.
- Michael Wells, who began as a Design Engineer in 2008, has similarly built his career through project management, proposals and sales, and now serves as Sales Director for Static Wind.
- Emily Bushby joined JDR as an apprentice in 2012 and has progressed her career to the current role of Production Engineer.
- James Harrod joined JDR as an apprentice in 2014 and has progressed his career through Engineering and into the current role of Senior Tendering Engineer.
We continue to reinforce our commitment to Apprenticeship and Graduate schemes as well as supporting colleagues across the business through continual professional development ranging from Masters degrees and MBAs to Six Sigma Black Belts and technical upskilling certifications.
Creating energy jobs and strengthening supply chains
We are also continuing to invest directly in the communities that underpin the UK’s offshore wind supply chain. The completion of the first stage of our new subsea cable manufacturing facility in Cambois, near Blyth, marks a positive new chapter for JDR and the region. The new facility will cover 69,000 sqm and create 171 skilled local jobs, significantly boosting our UK offshore wind supply chain.
This investment positions the UK as a global leader in high-voltage subsea cable production while bringing jobs and opportunity to the Cambois community, where JDR is proud to be making a long-term commitment. It also supports the Government’s vision for net zero by 2050 and the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure.
Both this facility and our existing facility in Hartlepool are situated in regions that the Clean Industry Bonus is designed to support, demonstrating how JDR is creating high-quality jobs, expanding local manufacturing capability and strengthening the resilience of UK supply chains – all while delivering meaningful social value in the regions where this industry is rooted.
Championing local causes through fundraising
JDR’s social committee also plays a central role in connecting the business with the towns where we live and work. From sponsoring local football teams such as Hartlepool FC to running STEM programmes in schools, our initiatives are wide-ranging and designed to make a tangible difference.
A highlight of our calendar is the annual JDR Charity Ball, which brings colleagues, partners and the local community together to support important causes. Past events have raised significant funds for organisations including Daisy Chain, Mesothelioma UK and ReadLey.
Driving the energy transition together
Social responsibility is part of our operating approach. Strong teams, strong communities and a strong talent pipeline are all fundamental to delivering future energy solutions. As the energy transition accelerates, we will continue to ensure that the regions and people who shaped our success benefit from the opportunities it creates.
By Derek Cowan
Head of Human Resources
JDR Cable Systems
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