Training
Penelope Watson is among this year's trainees at ExxonMobil Fawley.
Published: November 15, 2024 | Updated: 15th November 2024
ExxonMobil’s petrochemical complex at Fawley has welcomed 18 recruits this year to its Process Training School.
Since 2022, almost 140 trainees have completed the intensive 12-week training programme, with many graduating into technician and process leader roles.
Among this year’s intake are recruits with backgrounds in teaching, graphic design, the police and the armed forces.
Penelope Watson, a former housing officer and reserve in the Royal Navy, changed careers at the age of 41 – and says she’ll “never look back”.
“Coming back to formal education was daunting, but I’m savouring the opportunity to learn every day as I work towards becoming a process operator for butyl.
“The sense of achievement as I progress through the training is incredibly motivating.”
Jessica transitioned from graphic design and leisure centre management and is now working on the CAT plant.
During her time at the leisure centre, she discovered a passion for technical work and problem solving, often finding that she liked learning the mechanics of how the equipment worked.
Jessica said: “The switch in career was challenging, but the supportive environment at ExxonMobil made all the difference.
“The hands-on training and team bonding activities were crucial in building my confidence and skills, and I’ve already started spotting ways that my graphic design degree could potentially be used in my work.”
Before training at Fawley, Simon Townend had already changed careers once, moving from the RAF police service to becoming a self-employed gas engineer.
He said: “My experience in managing workloads and teamwork seamlessly integrated with ExxonMobil’s operational framework, and the organisation’s emphasis on continuous learning and professional growth aligns perfectly with my career goals.”
Rounding out the group is former teacher George Adams, who now works on-site in distillation.
He added: “Joining ExxonMobil was the best decision I’ve made. The support and camaraderie are unmatched.”
The company also recently made a £30,000 donation to Community First, a charity dedicated to providing essential support services like transport, mobility and community facilities in the area around Fawley.
Nick Bone (left), Fawley site manager, with Community First CEO Tim Houghton
Tim Houghton, CEO of Community First, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to ExxonMobil Fawley for this generous £30,000 donation.
“With over 5,300 residents and 280 community groups using our transport services each year, this support means we can provide even more affordable and accessible services across the Waterside area and wider New Forest, reducing isolation and keeping people socially connected.
“This contribution is a fantastic example of how business and charity can work together to make a positive impact on the community.”
Nick Bone, Fawley site manager, added: “We were advised of a huge demand for minibus services – not just among residents, but also from local schools that require additional transport for trips, pastoral care and SEN initiatives.
“We’re pleased to provide these minibuses and hope they’ll continue to benefit the community for a long time.”
