ASET: Embedding competency for a generation
For 30 years, energy training provider, ASET, has been a cornerstone of competency validation in hazardous areas, thanks to its long-standing delivery of the CompEx scheme. Established in 1993, and the first commercial CompEx-approved training provider, the company has witnessed a gradual evolution in the hazardous area training landscape. We hear from ASET’s Marketing and Communications Specialist, Emma Campbell, as she reflects on the key changes, challenges and opportunities.
Adapting to a changing industry
“One of the most obvious changes of the past three decades has been in the sectors we serve,” explains Emma. “Initially, CompEx training qualifications focused exclusively on the UK oil and gas industry, but as regulations evolved and global standards were updated, so too did the scope of the scheme. It now has a much broader vision encompassing a diverse range of roles and industries worldwide.”
Today, CompEx qualifications cater for a variety of sectors, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and even whisky production, all of which ASET also serves.
“We’ve seen a marked growth in practitioners from non-oil and gas related sectors in recent years,” continues Emma. “The split between oil and gas versus other sectors now is about 70:30 whereas previously around 95% of our delegates were in oil and gas. The energy transition has also brought new opportunities – we’re seeing hydrogen emerge as a key focus, and CompEx is adapting to meet the needs of this rapidly growing sector.”
To keep pace with these developments, ASET has made significant investments, including a major refurbishment of its Aberdeen-based training centre in 2020. The upgrade transformed the facility into a state-of-the-art centre, designed to provide an enhanced training experience. “Our upgraded facilities mean we can deliver two CompEx qualifications simultaneously to the highest standard, ensuring we meet the growing demand from multiple industries,” she adds.
Opportunities from challenges
One of the ongoing challenges for training providers like ASET lies in staying ahead of the curve as the energy sector becomes increasingly digitised. “The pace of digital transformation in the energy sector means we have to evolve quickly,” explains Emma. “From advanced monitoring technologies to cutting-edge equipment, ensuring that training remains relevant to the demands of modern industry requires constant adaptation. CompEx qualifications are critical to this.”
ASET has risen to these challenges, with a typically agile approach. Its e-learning and virtual classroom offering, which uses digital platforms to enhance accessibility and flexibility for hazardous area practitioners across the globe, is becoming an integral part of ASET’s training delivery.
Another challenge is the indecision and lack of investment around hydrogen innovation, even as the world speeds towards the target of net zero by 2050. “The unknowns surrounding the energy transition leave us in a kind of limbo, between traditional oil and gas and emerging industries like hydrogen and renewables. But as the north east of Scotland continues to develop as a hub for hydrogen, the opportunities in hazardous area training are huge, and with the CompEx courses we’re well positioned to deliver the training this sector will need. It’s a complex time, but it’s also exciting.”
The growing focus on decommissioning offers another avenue for expansion, as Emma continues. “Late-life assets require skilled, competent practitioners and the CompEx qualifications play a key role in ensuring safe and efficient decommissioning processes.”
Proud to deliver
As the first commercial centre to deliver CompEx qualifications, ASET’s instructors are a key strength of the company. Combining with extensive industry experience, the instructors have built a reputation for excellence with consistently positive feedback from practitioners and high pass rates. This is down to the high level of delivery, and the understanding that ‘preparation is key’ when it comes to CompEx qualifications.
“Some of the best feedback we receive is always for our CompEx courses,” says Emma. “Our instructors really care about the delegates. They go above and beyond to ensure that the training is of the highest quality and tailored to individual, real-life needs.”
ASET’s impact extends far beyond Scotland. In 2024 alone, the centre welcomed delegates from 30 countries and since its inception has served more than 100 countries. From Europe to Africa, Asia to the Americas, ASET and CompEx have played a pivotal role in embedding competency in hazardous areas.
“Our influence started with oil and gas, but today it spans industries and geographies,” says Emma. “We’re deeply proud to have played a part in shaping the competency standards for an entire generation of practitioners.”
Looking ahead: a commitment to quality
While much has changed in the energy sector, ASET’s commitment to delivering world-class training remains steadfast. The flagship CompEx 5-day course is a testament to this, offering practitioners a rigorous combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills and real-world application.
“The world keeps changing, and so do we,” concludes Emma. “The one thing that hasn’t changed is our dedication to supporting individuals and teams working in hazardous areas. They are at the heart of everything we do. We’re proud of the journey we’ve been on, and we’re excited for what’s to come as the energy sector and others continue to transform.”