NEOM Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC) and the Energy & Water Academy (EWA) have announced a strategic collaboration to launch Saudi Arabia’s first specialised vocational training programme in green hydrogen technology.
This initiative is designed to equip Saudi nationals with the necessary skills and experience to support the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of NGHC’s green hydrogen plant, positioning them to excel in the rapidly growing green hydrogen sector.
Green hydrogen can be used in various applications, including fuel for vehicles, energy storage and heating systems.
Set to become the world’s largest green hydrogen producer when it begins full operations by the end of 2026, NGHC is taking a leading role in developing the Kingdom’s green hydrogen industry. The company is making significant investments in the training and upskilling of its workforce, ensuring they have the expertise to drive this innovative project forward.
The collaboration with EWA aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to establish the country as a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable development, and as a leading producer of clean hydrogen by 2030.
The comprehensive training programme, which commenced in August at EWA’s facilities in Rabigh, Saudi Arabia, is tailored for aspiring male and female technicians and engineers. Supported by the Saudi Human Resources Development Fund, the programme offers a unique blend of practical knowledge and hands-on experience in renewable energy technology and green hydrogen production. The training is divided into two main tracks:
- 2-Year Technician Training Programme in Renewable Energy Technology & Green Hydrogen: Targeted at recent graduates of Industrial Technical Colleges with Diploma Certificates or a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, this programme provides specialised training in renewable energy technology and green hydrogen.
- 1-Year Engineers Training Programme: Designed for individuals holding a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, this programme offers advanced training in renewable energy technologies.
Participants in the programme will receive a stipend and benefit from a curriculum delivered by EWA’s expert faculty, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive support including accommodation and meals. In addition, trainees will gain on-the-job experience by participating in the day-to-day operations of NGHC’s green hydrogen plant, applying their newly acquired skills in a real-world setting.
Wesam Y. Alghamdi, CEO of NEOM Green Hydrogen Company, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “Investing in education and training is crucial for the success of NEOM Green Hydrogen Company as we start preparing to operate the renewable energy facilities and the green hydrogen production plant, and support the broader clean hydrogen revolution in Saudi Arabia. This programme, in partnership with EWA, will empower a new generation of skilled professionals to lead this exciting nascent industry into the future.”
Alghamdi further emphasized that the programme goes beyond traditional training, offering hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and a comprehensive understanding of green hydrogen production, ensuring that graduates will be highly sought-after by industry leaders.
Tariq Al Shamrani, CEO of the Energy & Water Academy, echoed this sentiment: “Our mission at EWA is to cultivate a generation of innovators and leaders equipped to drive Saudi Arabia’s vision for a sustainable future. This partnership with NGHC reflects our dedication to advancing education that not only meets but exceeds industry demands, ensuring our trainees are at the forefront of the global energy transition.