The MP for Copeland has praised the “talent and enthusiasm” of the borough’s nuclear apprentices and graduates.
Trudy Harrison met a range of apprentices and graduates at the Nuclear Skills and Apprenticeship Fair, held as part of this week’s Nuclear Week in Parliament.
She said: “The event was filled to the brim with the best of the nuclear industry – from science and technology to innovation and manufacturing – all of which is essential to achieving our net-zero ambitions.
“It was especially a pleasure to meet the sizeable Copeland contingent at the event from nuclear firms, the supply chain and unions, including Sellafield Ltd, the NDA, LLWR Ltd, Jacobs, Atkins, KBR, Doosan, Morgan Sindall, Unite, Prospect and more.”
Also at the Nuclear Skills and Apprenticeship Fair, Mrs Harrison had the opportunity to congratulate Katie Wightman – a Control Room Operator at Sellafield Ltd – for being named the National Skills Academy Nuclear (NASN) Apprentice of the Year.
Katie, who delivered an inspirational keynote speech at the event, said: “Starting an apprenticeship was the best decision I have ever made. It has opened a lot of doors for me; I have learned from so many amazing role models and I would now like to be a role model for others.”
The first Nuclear Week in Parliament was organised by the Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) and featured a host of events in Westminster to promote and support the industry. The NIA this week published its annual Jobs Map which highlights the number of jobs nationally within the industry (NIA UK | Jobs Map 2021 – NIA UK)
Speaking at the launch event on Monday, Mrs Harrison said: “This week is about reminding everyone that ‘Net Zero Needs Nuclear’ and showcasing all the exciting opportunities and innovations that nuclear offers a net-zero Britain.
“Nuclear is the most powerful, the most sustainable and most efficient clean-energy technology we have and is the only proven source of firm, low-carbon power available.
“The jobs the nuclear industry creates are the kind of skilled, long-term jobs we want our young people and our community to have, and I am looking forward to joining colleagues to showcase the opportunities and expertise within the industry throughout the rest of this week.”
