Forth Valley College had an opportunity recently to showcase two projects as part of the high-profile Just Transition Summit held at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh on 29 October 2025, playing a key role in the national conversation on building a fair, low-carbon future for Scotland.
The Summit, hosted by Scotland’s Just Transition Commission, with a keynote speech from Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney MSP, brought together leaders from politics, business, education, trade unions, and communities to explore how the country can transition to a net-zero economy in a way that is inclusive and equitable.
FVC were invited by the Commission to showcase two specific projects: the College’s new Skills Transition Centre (STC) and the Grangemouth Skills Transition Employment Plan (G-STEP) both of which have a focus on skills and supporting the transition to a greener economy.
The STC represents a £4million investment in the region’s future workforce and is a key component of the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal. It is designed to support Scotland’s Just Transition by helping learners access sustainable employment in lower-carbon industries, contributing to over 1,660 new jobs and £628 million in economic benefit over the next decade.
The STC focuses on upskilling and reskilling individuals for emerging sectors and transitioning industries, ensuring that the workforce is equipped to meet the evolving needs of a greener economy.
G-STEP is a bespoke project funded by the UK and Scottish Government to work with employees of Petroineos who have been made redundant due to closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery. The project is part of the local PACE partnership offer and is working directly with employees to review skills needs and arrange training which will assist their transition into sustainable employment.
Forth Valley College Principal Kenny MacInnes, also took part in a panel focused on jobs and skills, exploring what Scotland’s future workforce might look like and how the country can get there. The panel addressed the jobs gap, the social cost of inaction, and the need for a clear direction in the skills system to deliver a just transition.
Speaking after the event, Kenny MacInnes said:
“The projects showcased by Forth Valley College are addressing many of the questions raised at the Just Transition Summit event. It’s about creating real, practical pathways for people to move into sustainable, future-focused careers. By working closely with industry and government, we’re ensuring that individuals are not only prepared for the jobs of tomorrow but are also part of shaping a fairer, greener Scotland.
“At Forth Valley College, we are fully committed to playing a leading role in Scotland’s Just Transition - by empowering individuals, supporting communities, and driving innovation in skills development.”
