The first offshore wind apprentice appointed by the company running a major renewables energy scheme off the Suffolk coast has taken up her first permanent role.

Jovita Beeston, 21 and from Acle, has become a balance of plant technician at the £2.5bn East Anglia ONE offshore wind farm, which was fully commissioned in July 2020.

During her three-year apprenticeship, Miss Beeston studied at East Coast College while gaining practical on the job experience, including working offshore on the 102 turbine wind farm, which is 30 miles off the Suffolk coast.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: It’s four years since the first power was generated from the East Anglia ONE wind farm off the Suffolk coast (Image: ScottishPower Renewables)It’s four years since the first power was generated from the East Anglia ONE wind farm off the Suffolk coast (Image: ScottishPower Renewables) (Image: ScottishPower Renewables)

She was inspired to join the ScottishPower Renewables apprenticeship programme after studying engineering at college as well as gaining practical work experience in the offshore wind sector.

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As part of the offshore technical team responsible for keeping the turbines turning, Miss Beeston and her colleagues carry out the mechanical and electrical works needed to ensure the windfarm produces as much clean green electricity as possible.

The former University Technical College Norfolk student said: “I’m really excited to become a permanent part of the team here at East Anglia ONE.

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"I’ve absolutely loved getting to know the industry, the wind farm, the people and being part of something that makes a difference for people’s lives every day – it’s incredibly rewarding.

“And that’s not just about the renewable energy we produce here.

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"It’s about the jobs and the opportunities available and showing other women that they can be part of this great green industry.   

“I’m so lucky to have been able to start my offshore wind career right here in the east of England and proud to be working for ScottishPower Renewables.”

Charlie Jordan, chief executive of ScottishPower Renewables, said: “From day one, we could all see Jovita’s potential and it’s been great to follow her journey from apprentice to technician – she is a brilliant ambassador for our apprenticeship programme and a real trailblazer."