Heron Energy required a structured and effective Training Needs Analysis (TNA) to assess the development requirements of its CCGT operations team. The goal was to create clear individual development plans while identifying broader capability gaps across the team.

The Challenge

At the Thiva CCGT site in central Greece, Heron Energy needed a consistent and objective method to evaluate the competence levels of all operations personnel. This included identifying both individual strengths and collective training requirements to support targeted development planning.

Our Approach

Power Plant Training worked closely with Heron Energy to design and deliver a tailored TNA aligned to the plant’s operational requirements.

Initial engagement began in 2025, when Power Plant Training’s Director of Business Development, Shantelle Deller, entered discussions with Heron Energy. While the original focus was on training delivery, these conversations evolved to highlight the value of a structured Training Needs Analysis and the long-term benefits it would provide.

Following agreement on scope and objectives, a site-specific assessment framework was developed to establish a realistic baseline of technical knowledge and operational understanding. A bespoke questionnaire ensured all content was directly relevant to the plant systems and configuration.

The delivery programme was carefully structured to minimise disruption to operations. It began on 27th March with detailed discussions with plant leadership and a guided control room walkthrough to contextualise the assessment.

This was followed by two days of testing, during which all 17 team members completed a 50-question multiple-choice assessment.

Assessment results were analysed and presented through clear graphical reporting, providing an accessible overview of both individual and team performance, and highlighting key strengths and development areas.

Key Benefits

• Site-Specific Relevance: Assessment content tailored to the plant’s actual configuration

• Clear Development Insight: Identification of both individual and team-wide training needs

• Technical Depth: Inclusion of plant-specific elements such as the two-pressure HRSG configuration

• Actionable Outcomes: Direct input into structured training and development plans

Outcome

The TNA was successfully delivered, providing each team member with a clear understanding of their current capability and development priorities. This has enabled Heron Energy to implement focused training pathways, supporting both individual progression and overall team performance.

This project demonstrates the value of a collaborative, site-specific approach underpinned by strong technical understanding and effective stakeholder engagement.

Feedback (Trainer)

Power Plant Training’s Director of Business Development, Shantelle Deller, initiated discussions with Heron Energy in 2025. While the original focus was on training delivery, these conversations quickly evolved into a Training Needs Analysis project, recognising the long-term value it would bring to the operations team.

Plant Manager John Lamprakis and Operations Manager Demitrios Pokas were highly engaging throughout the process and fostered an open and collaborative working environment. Shantelle’s clear communication and structured approach were instrumental in establishing a strong working partnership between Power Plant Training and Heron Energy.

During the development phase, Demitrios Pokas was the primary point of contact and provided consistent support through regular calls and online meetings. His input was invaluable in shaping a relevant and practical TNA framework.

Upon arrival on site, I was welcomed by Demitrios and introduced to John Lamprakis. John clearly outlined his vision for the operations team and how the TNA would provide direction and structure for future development under Demitrios’ leadership.

The five days spent on site were extremely positive. The team was welcoming, professional, and fully engaged in the process. The TNA sessions were well attended and conducted in a constructive and positive atmosphere.

The analysis, presented in graphical format, was reviewed with both John and Demitrios, enabling productive discussions around next steps and future development planning.

Overall, the experience was highly rewarding. The collaboration, openness, and commitment from the Heron team were evident throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed my time both at the plant and in the town of Thiva, and I look forward to returning to support the next phase of development in the near future.

Feedback (Client)

“It was a real pleasure working with you, and I truly appreciate all the support, insights, and constructive discussions we had. We were glad to host you in Greece.

The most important element is that everyone understands and accepts their own strengths and weaknesses, so that we can then focus meaningfully on their development path.

I am confident that this collaboration can lead to a strong and progressive framework for the Operations team, and I look forward to continuing this work.”

Next Steps

If your organisation would benefit from a structured and site-specific Training Needs Analysis, please get in touch to discuss how we can support your team’s development.