CATCH has been recognised in the UK Government’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan as a leading example of how industry and education can work together to create the skilled workforce needed for the clean energy future.

Based in stallingborough, Grimsby, CATCH already operates as the new “Technical Excellence College” model, training people for real industrial careers. The triple-award winning organisation delivers apprenticeships and training in 11 of the identified priority occupations, students are supported by tutors who bring years of experience from working in industry. Its facilities are designed to feel like real industrial workplaces, giving learners hands-on experience that prepares them for their future careers. The organisation also leads the way in inclusion, running Women in Engineering initiatives, Equality Diversity, Inclusivity and Belonging network, and a dedicated outreach team connecting schools and communities with opportunities in the industrial sectors.

David Talbot, CATCH CEO, said, “Our strength lies in our deep routed industrial connections, with investors, local councils, government and employers across the region. Our offer spans the full talent pipeline, from pre-apprenticeships and Skills Bootcamps through to Level 4 HNC programmes which will be delivered from September 2026, ensuring opportunities for learners at every stage. It also supports the existing and transitioning workforce through short courses for upskilling and reskilling, aligned with the region’s industrial needs including, Local Skills Improvement Plans and working with the Office for Clean Energy Jobs Training Guarantee, and the national clean energy skills pilot”.

The Government’s report describes CATCH as “an employer-led training provider, co-funded by industry and government, supporting reskilling in hydrogen, carbon capture, utilisation and storage, and process operation.”

Download details of how we align with the clean energy jobs plan here.

CATCH is delighted to announce the appointment of Jacqueline Gray, as Director of Business Development and Partnerships. In this newly created role, Jacqueline will oversee new opportunities across all service areas, including apprenticeships, commercial training, and membership services.

David Talbot, CEO CATCH said, “We are very excited to be welcoming Jacqueline to the team in mid-November, she brings a strong track record of strategic leadership with a focus on growth and client engagement, which aligns perfectly with the requirements of this new role. We are confident that Jacqueline will drive significant growth and success across our business”.

Jacqueline will drive CATCH’s growth agenda by leading regional and national partnerships, developing new commercial opportunities, and supporting the organisation’s mission to support members clean power ambitions, innovation, and skills development across our region and beyond.

Jacqueline said: After an incredibly rewarding decade at the University of Lincoln, this next chapter feels both exciting and purposeful. CATCH plays a vital role in shaping the Humber and Greater Lincolnshire’s industrial future, driving decarbonisation, innovation, and skills development across energy-intensive sectors. Its vision for a cleaner, more connected, and competitive industrial economy truly resonates with me, and I’m honoured to be joining the team at such a pivotal time for UK industry.

Over the past ten years, I’ve been privileged to work with exceptional colleagues and partners on projects such as the Bridge, IDRIC, Freeport collaborations, and many others focused on regional growth and Net Zero innovation. Those experiences have shaped my approach to partnership, purpose, and people, all of which I’ll carry proudly into this new role.

A heartfelt thank you to all who’ve supported, encouraged, and collaborated with me along the way. Here’s to the next chapter, collaboration, growth, and making a lasting difference together”.

Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for CATCH as the organisation continues to expand its influence across the region.

British Steel today announced a new partnership with leading training provider CATCH as it prepares to welcome dozens of new apprentices into its business.

The UK’s only primary steelmaker is taking on its first apprentices for 3 years including 36 in engineering and technical roles in Scunthorpe.

Training for these successful candidates will be delivered by expert tutors from CATCH and follow a flexible delivery model, so the apprentices learn their trades both on-site at British Steel and at the Stallingborough-based CATCH facility.

Located in the heart of the UK’s Energy Estuary, CATCH delivers high impact services tailored to meet the evolving needs of industry, from its world-class training facilities and membership networks to its policy engagement and school outreach work.

British Steel HR Director Nick Ashton said: “CATCH has an outstanding reputation, and we’re delighted our new apprentices – our next generation of engineers and technical experts – will benefit from this exciting new partnership.

“We’ve been working closely with CATCH to ensure the best possible training experience, with a blend of technical knowledge and practical hands-on skills.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our new apprentices who will play an important role in our drive towards sustainable steelmaking.”

British Steel’s new engineering and technical apprentices for Scunthorpe will join the business in September and, over the course of their 3-year programmes, work towards a National Apprenticeship while earning a competitive salary.

Nick said: “Many of our senior leaders joined as apprentices and our new recruits will have a superb opportunity to follow in their footsteps and build the foundations for a hugely rewarding career with British Steel.”

Paul Robinson, Director of Education and Training at CATCH, said: “British Steel has a proud legacy and the people that work there have a deep-rooted sense of belonging, these values closely align with our own at CATCH.

“We are extremely proud to be working in partnership with the team and to support the development of their future workforce. Together, we will provide a high-quality apprenticeship programme that blends technical expertise with practical, hands-on training, giving apprentices the tools they need to thrive in their new careers.

“We look forward to a long partnership and to playing a key role in British Steel’s journey as they continue to invest in place, people, skills, and their community.”

British Steel is recruiting a total of 58 apprentices this year. In addition to the 36 engineering and technical apprenticeships in Scunthorpe, 6 functional roles have been created at its headquarters, 14 positions at its operations on Teesside and Skinningrove, and 2 roles at its R&D facility in Sheffield.

CATCH was delighted to welcome Sir David Bell, Vice Chair of Skills England, and Andrew Mills, Skills England Regional Relationship Manager (North), to our Stallingborough site this week.

Hosted by CEO David Talbot, the visit included a tour of our industry-led training facilities, followed by a working lunch and roundtable discussion with representatives from across the Humber’s process, energy, and engineering sectors.

The roundtable provided a valuable opportunity for employers to share key challenges – including skills shortages, the need for greater training capacity, and clarity around funding and investment – directly with the Skills England team. Participants highlighted the importance of collaboration between training providers, colleges, and employers to address regional skills gaps and deliver a workforce ready to support major infrastructure and the clean energy mission projects.

We thank our members, partners, and stakeholders for contributing to such an impactful session and look forward to continuing our engagement with Skills England to shape a skills system that truly meets the needs of industry.

CATCH, the membership-led industrial training organisation, has commenced build on their latest expansion with Lindum Group.

The new facility, which is an extension of the CATCH head-office and conferencing building, will house a new central atrium, lecture theatre, event and breakout space including AR/VR suite and Board Room.
The Humber Freeport has provided £4M of funding towards the industry backed CATCH expansion programme, which is part of the organisation’s wider plans to scale up the number of engineering construction trades people required to build, operate and maintain the UK’s energy security infrastructure.

The expansion, supported by public and private place-based investment, will lead initiatives and projects to build academic partnerships, STEM careers & educational outreach, reskilling and upskilling delegates employed or seeking employment in the Humber industrial cluster where new jobs are being created for the clean power industries and through deployment of new technologies in hydrogen and carbon capture and storage.

The ground breaking ceremony welcomed public sector investors, industry sponsors, CATCH board Members and key stakeholders from across the region. Speeches were delivered from David Talbot CEO CATCH, Simon Green, CEO Humber Freeport, Melanie Onn, Labour MP for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes and Martin Vickers Conservative MP for Brigg and Immingham.

Katie Hedges, Chief Strategy Officer said, “Our new centre will play a vital role in accelerating the Humber’s transition to a low-carbon economy. By supporting our members & new investors, nurturing clean growth businesses, and strengthening our ties with local universities, this facility will not only deliver our core membership services but also create skilled jobs, support supply chain development, and inspire the next generation of industry leaders across our industrial communities”.

Simon Green, CEO of Humber Freeport, said: “Alongside driving investment through our tax sites, Humber Freeport launched with three key focuses – innovation, decarbonisation and skills.
“CATCH’s expansion, supported by significant private sector investment, will advance the region’s capabilities in all of those areas, creating a talent pool for employers to tap into and ensuring our region has the skilled people it needs to unlock growth.

“The Government has this week published its Industrial Strategy, and within it, made one thing very clear – the clean energy transition is the economic opportunity of the 21st century. As the pre-eminent energy cluster in north west Europe, the scale of opportunity we have in the Humber to drive the UK’s green industrial revolution is enormous.

“Humber Freeport is pleased to be supporting CATCH with its ambitious expansion, as we continue to work closely with the organisation and its industrial partners to understand how freeport status can act as a powerful tool to help the Humber achieve its strategic objectives.”

Cllr Phillip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said “This is great news for North East Lincolnshire. It provides great training opportunities for learners in NEL, particularly young people and preparing them for a future with well paid skilled jobs. We are very proud of the model where we work in partnership with industry to shape training programmes to meet their needs and focus on where the job growth is and we believe that, in close partnership with the Freeport and our new Mayoral Combined County Authority, this is just the start of delivering an improved skills and training offer in our region.”

CATCH is proud to announce that it has been awarded Service Provider of the Year at the 2025 Chemical Industries Association (CIA) Awards. The award recognises CATCH’s outstanding contribution to the UK chemical industry through its innovative, industry-led skills, training, and competency programmes.

Located in the heart of the UK’s Energy Estuary, CATCH delivers high impact services tailored to meet the evolving needs of industry, from its world-class training facilities and membership networks to its policy engagement and school outreach work. CATCH was shortlisted for three awards alongside tough competition in the industry – The Sustainability Award, The Service Provider of the Year Award and the Company of the Year Award.

David Talbot, CEO of CATCH, said:
“To be recognised by the CIA as Service Provider of the Year is a proud moment for our team. This award is a testament to the power of partnership, working together with our communities, industry, government, and education to build the skills and infrastructure needed for our region and beyond. We are now triple award winning, having previously been awarded the ECITB training provider of the year, and the ATA Training Provider of the year”.

To find out more about CATCH and their services please visit www.catchuk.org

We are delighted to announce that three CATCH Member Network groups are hosting events during Humber Business Week.

Humber Business Week takes place during the 2nd-6th June 2025 and celebrates the vibrant business landscape on our region. Our Programme includes:

Humber Industrial Decarbonisation Conference – register your place with Lisa – lisa.buck@catchuk.org. Exhibition spaces still available to book – reach out to Katie – katie.hedges@catchuk.org
Sponsored by Apprenticeship Employer Agency & The University of Hull
Location – Aura Innovation Centre, Hessle
10.00 – Welcome and Introductions from Chair – Joe Howe, Net Zero Humber Professor, University of Lincoln
10.05 – Key Note/Opening Address – Professor Peter Styring, The University of Sheffield
10.20 – Low Carbon Energy Transition in the Humber Industrial Cluster – Ralph Windeatt, ABP & Frederick Sene, Air Products
10.50 – Coffee Break (on mezzanine with exhibitors)
11.10 – Killingholme Low Carbon Power Project – Michelle Zietsman, Uniper
11.35 – Exolum & the role of the UK’s fuel infrastructure in the green transition – Edward Gill, Exolum
12.00 – Event close & buffet lunch (on mezzanine with exhibitors)

Environmental Managers Conference – register your place with Katie – Katie.hedges@catchuk.org
Sustainability & Circular Economy Event sponsored by TYR
Location – Rope Walk, Maltkin Road, South Humberside
1000 – Welcome – Martin Jones, Prax LOR, Chair
1005 – Circular Business Models – Andrew Gadd, Footprint Services
1030 – Cleaner Greener Future – The Reverse Coal Project – Dr Amir Badiee, University of Lincoln
1055 – Coffee Break
1110 – An Environment for Net Zero: the role of land, water and nature in net zero goals for North Lincolnshire and the Humber – Bruce Howard & Will McDonald
1130 – Humber Nature Partnership Strategic Update – Alex Hajok & Jackson Sage, Humber Nature Partnership
1155 – Future Topic & next meeting
1200 – Lunch & Networking

EDIB Conference – Generational Diversity – register your place with Lisa – lisa.buck@catchuk.org
Location – CATCH, Stallingborough
09:30 – 12:00 with lunch & Networking

This conference will focus on Generational Diversity with Protiviti, who were commissioned by and work with the London school of economics to deliver a study on this all important topic. Hosted by CATCH EDIB Chair Paul McCartan, Yara, will provide organisations with data-driven insights to increase productivity across the various generations of the workforce. We will be exploring the productivity potential of multi-generational meetings, including:
– The importance of Age Diverse teams in advancing organisational performance
– An Organisation’s ability to successfully adapt and compete for talent is dependent on a flexible and age inclusive workforce

We will hear about the year 2 survey, currently in flight, which is focusing on:
Generational Impressions of AI in the workplace
Keys to building Intergenerational Belonging.

The session will include interactive presentations, breakout sessions to discuss key questions and challenges and a group session to distil and prioritise actions to take forward.

Following the opening of the Welding and Pipefitting Hub in September 2024, the next stage of the CATCH expansion programme has been granted planning permission. The new development includes an Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and a new build Renewable Energy Training Centre, both set to officially open in early 2026. Supported by investment from partners Viking CCS members Phillips 66 Limited, Harbour Energy, Drax Group and Associated British Ports (ABP), plus Air Products and Uniper, alongside funding from the Humber Freeport.

These new facilities will further strengthen CATCH’s position as a leading hub for skills training and development in the region. As industries move towards the clean power mission these centres will equip the current and future workforce with the skills required for the evolving sector.

David Talbot, CEO of CATCH said, “These developments mark the next stage in our plans to train 1000 apprentices per year by 2030. Partnership is what makes CATCH different, we leverage knowledge gained from our members and stakeholders, to find out exactly what industry really needs now and in the future. By collaborating across our skills eco-system, from our outreach and engagement work to supporting the community to the upskilling of adults – we can contextualise and provide up to date training across the sector. We are immensely grateful for the ongoing support of our investors in making this vision a reality.”

The Renewable Energy Training Centre will offer hands-on training for technicians and operators, with new purpose built workshops, classroom space and common areas. While the Industrial Decarbonisation Centre, will feature a lecture theatre, inward investment suite, AR/VR capability as well as upgraded reception, office space and breakout areas for networking.

Simon Green, CEO of Humber Freeport, said:

“To decarbonise the Humber’s industrial cluster and transition to a net zero economy, we need the right people with the right skills and expertise.

“Facilities like CATCH are absolutely vital to equip our future workforce with the capabilities and the confidence to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving and growing green skills sector.

“The strength of CATCH’s proposition is underlined by the breadth of cross-sector support and funding from industry and partners. Through the Freeport’s Seed Capital Fund, we were delighted to play our part in the next exciting chapter of CATCH’s story.

“As the Humber accelerates towards low carbon technologies and innovation, CATCH will serve as a centre of excellence for clean energy, connecting industry with a pool of highly-skilled people ready to drive sustainable, green economic growth.”

Paul Fursey, Lead Executive UK & General Manager, Humber Refinery at Phillips 66 Limited said:

“The establishment of the Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and the Renewable Energy Training Centre at CATCH represents a pivotal step forward in enhancing skills development in the Humber region.

“Our recent investment in the training centre not only reflects our ongoing collaboration with local industry to support future growth and innovation but also fortifies the region’s economic resilience as we transition to a lower carbon economy”

Richard Gwilliam, Chair of the Humber Energy Board and UK BECCS Programme Director at Drax Group, said:

“The Humber is the UK’s biggest decarbonisation opportunity and CATCH has a critical role to play in developing the pipeline of talent our region needs to deliver on our green growth ambitions.

“We’re pleased to see that CATCH’s Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and Renewable Energy Training Centre have secured planning permission and are moving closer to construction. These facilities will equip current and future workers with in-demand skills that can lead to long-term careers in the Humber and globally.”

For more information about the upcoming expansion or to inquire about training opportunities, please contact CATCH directly at – info@catchuk.org

The University of Hull and CATCH have announced plans to collaborate on a series of key opportunities to expand the skills and research landscape in the region.

The two organisations have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support talent development and research initiatives.

As part of this collaboration, the University of Hull and CATCH will work together on several key initiatives, including:

• Developing joint training opportunities, including Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programmes and short courses tailored to CATCH industry members.
• Exploring opportunities for University of Hull students to utilise CATCH facilities as part of their curriculum development.
• Seeking joint research funding to advance industry-led projects.
• Identifying opportunities for joint Knowledge Exchange funding to support collaborative innovation.
• Enhancing apprenticeship programmes to bridge the gap between academic study and industry practice.
• Organising training days focused on project practice and data analysis.

These initiatives aim to provide students and industry partners with hands-on experience and collaborative opportunities that support career development and innovation at the same time as strengthening the links between academia and industry to drive innovation and workforce excellence

Professor Fiona Matthews, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research an Enterprise at the University of Hull, said: “Fostering collaboration between education and industry is vital in driving sector-wide growth and sustainability.

“We are thrilled to formalise our partnership with CATCH, an organisation that shares our commitment to developing industry-ready talent and driving forward innovation. This collaboration will provide invaluable opportunities for students, researchers, and industry partners to work together, ensuring that we continue to address the evolving needs of the sector and the region.”

CATCH is a leading industry-led not-for-profit training facility supporting the process, energy, engineering, and renewable sectors. Based in the Humber region it aims to ensure the regional workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for the future.

David Talbot, CEO of CATCH joined Professor Matthews for a signing event at the Enterprise Centre.

Mr Talbot said “This partnership enables us to help and bridge the gap between industry and academia. By combining the University of Hull’s academic capabilities with CATCH’s practical, hands-on approach to training, we are setting a new standard for excellence in industrial training. Together, we can create opportunities for students and industry partners, with the aim of preparing the workforce for the future.”

CATCH is thrilled to announce that on the evening of the 11th March, at a glittering awards ceremony in Liverpool, they became the 2025  Training Provider of the Year!

The Apprenticeship and Training Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of employers and training providers across the UK, recognising their vital role in developing a skilled and diverse workforce.

Director of Education and Training, Paul Robinson, said, “We are absolutely delighted to win this prestigious national award. This award celebrates our journey and commitment to providing first-class industrial training for all. From our engagement with schools and the community to our relationships with employers and investors, to delivering our premium apprenticeships and adult skills in our real-world environment – we are proud to contribute to the development of skilled professionals in the renewable, energy, process and engineering industries. We have built a thriving local skills eco-system to be proud of”.

Under the leadership of CEO, David Talbot, CATCH has set a benchmark in delivering high-quality, industry-led apprenticeship programs that not only meet but exceed industry standards. The award reflects the organisation’s dedication to creating a learning environment that equips apprentices with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving sector.

“This national award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team at CATCH,” said David. “We are committed to providing exceptional training experiences that prepare our apprentices and adult learners for the industry of tomorrow. We’re not just teaching skills; we’re building the foundation for careers that will shape the future of our industries”

Industry and place-led, CATCH is different, all courses are taught by ex-industry tutors coupled with hands-on training, delivered in state-of-the-art facilities. This approach ensures that all apprentices receive an education that is both comprehensive and directly applicable to real-world scenarios.

Over the past year, CATCH has expanded its facilities, with the support of Viking CCS members Phillips 66 Limited, Harbour Energy, Drax and ABP together with Air Products, Uniper, the ECITB and Humber Freeport, with the opening of the largest welding and pipefitting training facility in the UK. They are continuing their expansion in 2025/2026, with the opening of a new Industrial Decarbonisation Centre and a Renewable Energy Training Centre, reflecting the organisation’s responsiveness to the needs of the industry.

This accolade cements CATCH’s position as a leader in industrial training and development, who is committed to future-proofing the skills of an evolving industry. And, this award, makes the organisation a double award winner! Having previously won the prestigious ECITB Training Provider of the Year award in November 2024.

For more information about CATCH and its programs, please contact info@catchuk.org