Become ‘ambassadors of innovation’ – BIT CEO tells new electric vehicle trainers

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), Richard Maughn has urged a new cohort of certified trainers in electric vehicle (EV) systems and solar photovoltaic (PV) charging infrastructure to become ambassadors of innovation, embrace safety, pursue excellence and continue contributing to Guyana’s growing energy sector.

Maughn made the remarks during a graduation ceremony held on June 5, 2026, at the Windjammer International Hotel, where 22 local professionals were certified under the Just Energy Transition (JET) Seed Funding Initiative. Addressing the graduates, Maughn encouraged them to share the knowledge acquired throughout the training programme and apply innovation in the skills they have gained.

“We want to let you know that we expect you to share the knowledge that you have acquired over the period of training and, when we consider what you have learned so far, today I want to charge you to become ambassadors. To become what? Ambassadors — ambassadors of innovation,” he said.

According to Maughn, innovation is essential in the renewable energy sector. “You cannot be involved in renewables, and more specifically renewable energy, without being an innovator. You have to be innovative. You have to be able to think outside the box,” he said.

He urged participants to make the best use of available resources while supporting sustainable development. “You have to be able to look at resources and see how we can make the best use of what we have, how we can make it work for us, and at the same time ensure that we do not deplete what we have. So, I want to charge you to be innovators and to be innovative in what you are doing.”

As new technologies continue to emerge in Guyana, Maughn said graduates must adopt an innovative mindset and remain adaptable.

He also stressed the importance of workplace safety. “I want to charge you to be safe. You have to be safe. As we explore new technology, it is important that we do it safely and, when you are safe, you ensure that others are safe,” he said.

“Safety must become a way of life for you because when safety becomes a way of life, it is easier to implement and practice it in the world of work.” The BIT CEO also encouraged graduates to strive for excellence. “I want to charge you to be excellent — excellent in all your endeavors,” he said.

He urged participants not to settle for mediocrity, noting that the commitment and potential demonstrated by trainees were among the reasons international partners chose to invest in the programme. Maughn further encouraged graduates to use the competencies they have gained to support the growth of Guyana’s green economy and promote sustainable energy solutions. “You have that responsibility,” he told them.

He urged participants to continue contributing to Guyana’s expanding energy ecosystem. “Remember, our planet, our power — the power is in your hands, so you have to promote sustainable energy solutions and contribute to building a workforce that is prepared for the opportunities of the future,” he said.

“It therefore means that if you are going to prepare for the opportunities of the future, you also have to embrace a growth mindset. You have to be willing to unlearn and relearn so that you remain relevant.”

The graduation ceremony marked the successful completion of training for 22 local professionals, strengthening Guyana’s capacity to meet the growing demands of its expanding electric mobility sector.

Participants received training in EV maintenance, solar PV installation and maintenance for EV charging infrastructure, as well as training delivery methodologies under the JET Seed Funding Initiative.

Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Dr. Mahender Sharma said the latest graduates have increased the number of persons trained to repair electric vehicles in Guyana to 77.

“To complement the ongoing development of electric vehicle infrastructure, the government has also invested in human capacity and resource development. With this most recent cohort, we will have a total of 77 auto electricians and mechanical technicians trained to repair and maintain EVs in Guyana,” Sharma said.

He told graduates that whether they become trainers, technicians, entrepreneurs or innovators, their contributions will help shape a more sustainable and prosperous Guyana.

“As you move forward, the Prime Minister encourages you to continue learning, remain adaptable, and share your knowledge with others. Today’s technologies will evolve and lifelong learning will be essential,” Sharma said.

He added that the graduates’ achievements should encourage more young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and technical trades. “Your success should inspire more young people, women and men alike, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and technical trades. The Prime Minister commends the instructors, programme coordinators, and partner organisations whose dedication made this initiative possible. Your investment in human development will yield dividends for years to come.”

The programme was supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

Graduates also expressed satisfaction with the training programme and the knowledge and skills they gained throughout the course.