3C Metal Belmet Namibia’s new Training Centre was officially opened by Country Manager Mr Christo Wiese recently, marking an important investment in the company’s employees and the future of Namibia’s growing oil and gas industry.
Speaking at the official inauguration, Mr Wian van Schalkwyk, the Production Manager and pioneer of the training initiative said the opening represents a new chapter for the company and its commitment to developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting international industry standards. With Namibia’s oil and gas sector expected to grow rapidly, the company said there is an increasing demand for qualified artisans. Over the past few years, 3C Metal Belmet identified a growing skills shortage in the industry and decided to establish its own training centre to help address the gap.
The primary focus of the centre will be to train and upskill the company’s own employees, enabling them to meet the quality, safety and technical standards required by clients and the industries they serve. The company has partnered with O’Métier, the international training academy of the Ortec Group, to deliver practical, industry-focused training based on international best practice. The partnership is expected to strengthen technical skills while promoting a culture of safety, continuous learning and operational excellence. Although the main purpose of the facility is to develop the company’s workforce, 3C Metal Belmet said selected training opportunities may, from time to time, be extended to members of the wider community following an assessment process.
The company stressed that participation in these programmes will not be regarded as an application for employment and does not guarantee a job with the company. Before the official opening, the training centre completed a successful six-week pilot programme for boilermakers and welders. According to the company, the commitment and progress shown by participants confirmed the value of structured, hands-on training. Certificates were also presented to those who completed the pilot programme.
The company congratulated the graduates, saying the certificates represent dedication, hard work, personal growth and a commitment to continuous improvement. 3C Metal Belmet also thanked its management team, the Ortec Group, O’Métier, trainers, project team and employees who contributed to making the training centre a reality. The company said the true value of the facility will not be measured by the building or its equipment, but by the people who will develop new skills, build careers and contribute to the future of the company, the industry and Namibia.
By Eileen van der Schyff
