SINGAPORE: Keppel Offshore & Marine (O&M) has pumped S$5 million into its group training centre to increase the capacity - from 3,000 trainees a year to 3,500. The move is aimed at widening the marine industry's skilled workforce.

The latest expansion brings Keppel O&M's annual investment in training to S$23 million. The bulk of this was spent on technical skills and specialised training packages offered at the training centre which is located near Jurong.

Keppel employees and subcontractors can enrol in comprehensive courses on subjects such as welding and workplace safety at the centre.

Keppel O&M also signed an agreement with the Institute of Technical Education to set up a Marine Offshore Technology Workshop at ITE College Central.

Keppel said the industry has seen booming growth in the last three years and this has led to a shortage of skilled manpower.

Tong Chong Heong, managing director & chief operating officer, Keppel Offshore & Marine, said: "There has been (a shortage), especially in the peak in the offshore and marine industry. And we continually take on the role of providing all these training for our workforce to upgrade their competency." - CNA/vm