South Hampshire College Group have won the Workforce Development category of the 2026 Subsea Expo Awards, in recognition of the groundbreaking progress of Tech+Tour.
The national Subsea Expo awards, held in Aberdeen, recognise the accomplishments of companies and individuals leading innovation and excellence across the subsea sector and the wider underwater industry. Around 350 people attended the Black-Tie event as nine awards were presented to companies from across the UK, hosted by British comedian Cally Beaton and organised by Global Underwater Hub.
The Workforce Development Initiative category recognises organisations that have demonstrated a strong commitment to employee development through the implementation and delivery of cohesive learning and development programmes.
South Hampshire College Group’s work in developing Tech+Tour to promote upskilling across the maritime sector, and spreading awareness of industry opportunities for the next generation, through a dynamic school and community engagement programme, were key elements in this national recognition. Tech+Tour champions women in engineering, a male-dominated sector, while inspiring students and young adults through hands-on experiences, highlighting innovative career pathways across the Creative, Maritime, Logistics, and Health & Social Care sectors.
Jackson Ottley, Tech+Tour Coordinator, represented South Hampshire College Group at the awards and commented: “Winning this award means such a lot to everyone involved in Tech+Tour. It reflects the time, energy and genuine passion that has gone into creating opportunities for young people and supporting the future of the industry. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved together.”
Neil Gordon, chief executive of Global Underwater Hub, said: “Each year, the talent, innovation, drive, achievements and ambition of the UK’s £9.4billion underwater industry is proudly on display at the Subsea Expo Awards. This is an industry that has ties to communities right across the UK and benefits local economies, clearly demonstrated once again this year by the firms collecting accolades. It is an industry in demand globally and has a critical role to play in the energy transition and the drive to net-zero.”
