Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our courses and programmes.
What is the Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy?
The Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy is Ireland’s national training initiative dedicated to upskilling the workforce for the offshore wind energy sector. It is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and industry-led to delivery flexible, informed micro-credentials designed to prepare professionals for careers in offshore wind, in the most critical skill areas for delivery.
What is a Micro-Credential course?
Micro-Credential courses are short, accredited learning programmes that focus on specific skills and competencies relevant to the offshore wind industry. Delivered in partnership with leading education providers and industry experts, each course includes a blend of practical knowledge, academic insight, and real-world application. Learners receive certification upon completion, which can support career development or progression into further study.
What is involved in a Micro-Credential course?
Our courses typically involve participants attending lectures for several weeks, while some courses may involve a practical or continuous assessment element. Delivery varies per course (i.e. in-person, hybrid, online), please refer to the programme details listed on each course page.
Am I eligible for subsidised course fees?
Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy is an enterprise-led network facilitating the workforce and development needs of the Irish renewable energy industry. The network is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and Network companies. Skillnet Ireland is funded through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science.
Eligibility is based on the trainee and their employer meeting a specific criteria, you can learn more here: Funding Eligibility Criteria.
Who are the courses for?
Our courses are designed for professionals looking to transition into offshore wind, as well as those already working in renewable energy who want to upskill. Whether you’re from an engineering, environmental, maritime, or project management background – or from another sector entirely – we offer a range of micro-credentials to help you take the next step in your career.
We also welcome professionals with transferrable skills from other sectors (e.g. onshore wind, engineering, project management, marine, energy, utilities, oil & gas) who are seeking to upskill or transition into offshore wind, as well as companies aiming to develop their workforce’s offshore wind capabilities.
How much time do I need to commit to the course?
Each micro-credential course is different. They’re designed to be flexible and to fit around working life, with a variety of durations and delivery formats, but typically span 12 – 18 weeks. Our programs are developed to fit around working professionals and typically are delivered on a part-time basis, however there are some exceptions. For specific information on time commitment, please refer to the programme details listed on each course page.
Do I have to be a Wind Energy Ireland (WEI) member to apply?
No, you do not need to be a member of Wind Energy Ireland (WEI) to apply for a course. Our programmes are open to eligible businesses across Ireland’s workforce who are interested in building skills for the offshore wind sector.
What if my team requires training on more than one Micro-Credential?
We can support team training across multiple micro-credentials and assist your business in developing a training plan which meets your unique strategy and goals. We can advise on suitable course combinations and may be able to tailor a learning pathway to meet your team’s requirements. If your organisation has training needs spanning several areas, please contact us directly via training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie.
How are the courses delivered?
Courses are delivered through a mix of online, in-person blended learning formats, depending on the programme. This flexibility ensures accessibility for working professionals while maintaining high-quality, interactive learning experiences. For specific details, check the programme details listed on each course page.
Do I need prior experience in renewable energy to apply?
While some courses are designed for those with industry experience, many are open to learners from other sectors who are looking to pivot into offshore wind e.g. project managers, finance, accounting, law etc. Micro-credentials typically include foundational content to bring you up to speed. Please refer to the ‘entry requirements’ listed on the course page of interest.
Can I enrol on multiple Micro-Credentials at the same time?
Yes, in many cases it is possible to take more than one micro-credential simultaneously, particularly if they are offered in a flexible or online format. However, we recommend reviewing the time commitment for each course and ensuring it fits your schedule. If in doubt, get in touch and we can help you plan your learning path.
How do I apply for a course?
Simply browse the available micro-credentials, select the one that suits your needs, and follow the instructions under ‘How to Apply’ on the course page. Once you have applied for the course, you will also be asked to complete a trainee profile to determine whether the subsidised course fee applies to you. If you need support, feel free to contact our team at training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie.
Are there entry requirements for each course, beyond the eligibility criteria?
Some courses may have specific entry requirements, such as relevant experience or prior qualifications. These will be clearly listed on each individual course page. If you’re unsure whether a course is right for you, we’re happy to help assess your suitability, feel free to contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie.