Roustabout, Richard Hilde, is celebrating after starting his new offshore career and winning AIS Survivex’s July Competition.
The 33-year-old wanted to jump from onshore to offshore, and having varied experience from rigging to operating, Richard decided now was the time to go ahead and complete the Offshore Banksman Slinger New-Starter Package with AIS Survivex.
This unique package of courses gives you all the initial skills you need to start an offshore career as a banksman / slinger – including offshore survival, OGUK medical and lifting operations training.
Through sheer determination Richard secured his first Roustabout role with Atlas Professionals just two days after completing his training and he is now working on the Thistle platform in the North Sea with KCA Deutag.
Richard said;
“I notified Atlas Professionals of my training completion date, and they contacted me for an available start straight away.
“I’d always had an interest in going offshore as it is a well-paid industry and there’s is a good balance between work and time at home.
“It’s a big eye opener. All the crew are friendly, and always willing to help and answer any questions I have.
“My tip to anyone wanting a career offshore is to get their name out there to potential employers and make sure references are up to date; follow up phone calls always help. Atlas was always happy to give feedback.”
To top it all off, Richard won the AIS Survivex July Competition to receive the full cost of his training package after posting his OPITO BOSIET on-course photo on LinkedIn.
Richard continued:
“I’d recommend AIS Survivex to anyone wanting to do their offshore training as the facilities are great and the instructors know their stuff. Everyone’s very professional and knowledgeable.
“I intend to go back for further training with my winnings!”