NESCol and ASET shortlisted for 2026 Northern Star Business Awards

December 11, 2025

North East Scotland College (NESCol) and ASET International Energy Training Academy have been announced as finalists in three categories at the upcoming Northern Star Business Awards.

Presented by Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, the awards celebrate the positive impact businesses make on the North East economy.

NESCol is in the running for the Staff Matter and Driving Sustainability Awards, while ASET is up for the Customer First Award.

Over 70 local organisations have been shortlisted across 15 categories, and the winners will be announced at a ceremony on Friday 17 April at P&J Live.

NESCol Principal Neil Cowie said, “We are delighted to have been recognised in two categories at the Northern Star Business Awards.

“Our people and sustainability are key aspects of NESCol’s newly released five-year Strategic Plan, and the nominations demonstrate how we already have excellent foundations in place to achieve our 2030 goals.

“Staff are at the heart of NESCol, and we aspire to be a progressive employer and a workplace of choice. We are also committed to becoming a net zero college and plan to continue implementing green initiatives across all our campuses.

“We extend our congratulations to our colleagues at ASET for their well-deserved nomination and look forward to the ceremony next year.”

As a wholly owned subsidiary of North East Scotland College, ASET plays a key role in delivering industry-aligned training that supports workforce development across the region and beyond. ASET’s shortlisting for the Customer First Award reflects an approach that is rooted in service excellence, learner support and real-world impact.

The ASET team works closely with delegates and employers to ensure training is accessible, responsive and tailored to operational needs – from initial enquiry through to certification.

The nomination demonstrates how customer care is embedded within the culture, and highlights the strong relationships they have built with organisations that rely on ASET to develop skilled, confident personnel for high-risk environments.

This recognition is a testament to the dedication of ASET staff, whose commitment to quality and customer experience continues to strengthen the organisation’s reputation both locally and internationally.

Sharon Scott, General Manager, ASET, said, “We are proud to be shortlisted for the Customer First Award at the Northern Star Business Awards. This nomination recognises the dedication and professionalism of the ASET team, whose commitment to delivering exceptional training experiences for our customers is at the heart of everything we do.

“We are equally delighted to share this achievement with our colleagues at North East Scotland College and congratulate them on being shortlisted for two awards – a fantastic accomplishment that reflects the strength of their people and their sustainability ambitions. Well done to everyone involved, and we look forward to celebrating with all our fellow nominees at the ceremony in April.”