Yes it is frustrating but the door does open from time to time. I assume by oil and gas you mean oil and gas offshore? There are a number of routes in and here are a couple of suggestions for someone with your background and experience. Move into oil and gas via the onshore process industry. There are a number of contractors who specialise in major process plant like refineries and oil terminals. Much of the plant and equipment, compressors, separators, pumps etc are similar to that used on offshore platforms. The safety management systems, permits to work and so on are often very similar to those used offshore. Many people have moved seemlessly from onshore process to offshore platform in their careers. The other alternative might be to look for a contractor with both onshore and offshore contracts, for instance a scaffolding company. Sooner or later they will find a reason to send you offshore and provide you with the equipment, training etc. Once you have relevent experience on your CV it becomes much easier. There are signs that the industry is picking up and we expect many new projects to be announced in the coming year. I certainly see new people coming into the industry from other sectors all the time.

I am currently moving from the manufacturing industry to the offshore oil and gas industry. It has taken me almost 4 years! I honestly think it's a case of being in the right place at the right time. I had numerous doors slammed in my face over that period and thought of giving up a few times. I would say that persistence is the key thing. I would also advise that you make sure you already have your offshore survival and medical certs, as this might make the difference between getting a job or not. Just keep trying!

Take note of the postings already given as there is some good and free advice here Just 1 point: Is the £ getting better off shore again as it used to be very good but dropped off badly as I note that many people now want this type of work? I have friends working in Perth [Aussie] and it is just like the old Aberdeen days [lots of £] when I was tehre; so young people should look overseas