Paul Turnbull

Paul Turnbull is Head of Newcastle College Energy Academy, bringing decades of industry experience into his role. Starting his career as a pipe welder in an oil rig module yard, Paul went on to work across Europe before progressing into supervisory roles on major projects - including the build of Wembley Stadium and even contributing welding work to the Angel of the North.

Now leading the Energy Academy, Paul is focused on developing industry-ready learners and shaping the next generation of engineers for the evolving energy sector.

What is your role at Newcastle College?

I’m Head of Department at the Energy Academy, leading a team of teachers and support staff across a wide provision - from full-time students to apprenticeships and higher education.

A big part of my role is overseeing the strategic development and growth of the academy, making sure what we offer continues to evolve alongside industry.

What did you do before joining the college?

When I left school, I started as an apprentice pipe welder in an oil rig module yard.

From there, I worked abroad on contracts in countries like Holland, Belgium, Italy and France before moving into supervisory roles on major projects. I worked on the Wembley Stadium build and even did welding work on the Angel of the North.

In my mid-30s, I moved into education, teaching engineering and welding, and have progressed into leadership roles since.

What attracted you to Newcastle College?

The investment and future vision for the Energy Academy was a big draw.

It felt like a bit of a blank canvas - an opportunity to come in, shape the provision and develop something that’s fit for the future of the industry.

What is your favourite part of the role?

The development of the learners.

Seeing them progress from school, through their course, and then into positive outcomes - whether that’s apprenticeships, higher education or employment - is the most rewarding part of the job.

What is the Energy Academy like as a place to study?

It’s a fantastic facility with a really good atmosphere.

Over the last two years, we’ve invested heavily in equipment, working closely with employers to make sure everything aligns with industry. That means learners are training on the same types of equipment they’ll use in the workplace.

For me, it’s a great environment to learn in, and somewhere that genuinely prepares students for employment.

Why is it important to train the next generation of engineers?

It’s vitally important, especially with how the world is evolving towards renewable energy.

We’re helping to prepare learners for what I’d call the energy revolution - making sure they have the skills needed for the future of the sector.

How important are employer partnerships to the Energy Academy?

Employer engagement is absolutely key to what we do.

We’re based right on the Tyne and work with some major companies who help shape our provision, including Smulders, Shepherd Offshore and WD Close.

Those relationships have helped the academy grow significantly in a short space of time and ensure what we deliver is relevant to industry needs.

What are your thoughts on the future of the Energy Academy?

It’s a really exciting time.

The expansion of the academy is a huge step forward - not just for Newcastle College, but for the region as a whole. Having multiple facilities with industry-standard equipment will allow us to support more learners and meet the growing demand from employers, both locally and beyond.

What would you say to someone considering studying here?

For anyone looking to get into renewable energy, engineering, mechanical or electrical routes - this is the place to be.

We’ve got industry-standard equipment that’s second to none in the area, and everything we do is focused on helping learners develop their skills and become industry-ready.