It seems as though renewables companies are leading the way right now when it comes to investment, development and growth – and this includes from a people perspective.
Recognising traditional skills value
Across the UK, energy businesses should approach new staffing requirements, brought about by investment in renewables, by sourcing traditional oil and gas industry skill sets, as they’re fully transferable to that of wind, solar and hydropower. Successfully transitioning to renewables is not just about adopting new technologies but leveraging existing knowledge. By recognising the value of oil and gas experience, professionals can position themselves as key players in the renewable revolution, and businesses can capitalise on their experience before their competitors.
Key skills demand
The energy industry workforce is making a shift, as the new world of renewables excites candidates and offers new opportunity for progression, challenge and learning. Key skillsets already being applied in a renewables capacity include:
- Project Management: One of the most diverse skill sets, applicable across any industry. Knowledge of major energy system projects applies directly to wind farm development as the principles of installation, engineering and Health & Safety are the same.
- Design Engineering: Although design is often a specialist role and you’ll rarely see CAD masters sporting a late career change, many offshore projects in renewables, including wind farms, still need pipeline and structural design. You’ll notice renewables companies using similar software packages, which helps make the transition seamless.
- Health & Safety: Both industries require in-depth understanding of globally practiced safety standards. There will always be a place for Health & Safety professionals in any construction project, including those in oil, gas and renewables.
- Supply Chain: This heading covers a vast number of roles, all of which are imperative to project success. As companies diversify and look for more renewables work, their current staff will begin to learn more about the renewables landscape and how their roles will develop.
Making the transition
The next question is: how are organisations pivoting from being known as the go-to, traditional oil and gas supplier to a renewables business? We’ve seen many companies diversify by tendering for wind and hydrogen projects of a similar size and capacity to their previous work. They’re able to demonstrate their capability through the experience and transferable skill sets of their staff.
Whilst it’s up to the employer to recognise these transferable skills initially, employees need to develop and nurture their expertise to the level a renewables project needs. Opportunities for learning more about alternative energy sources include webinars, news stories, You Tube videos and taking online qualifications.
Speak to an expert
The renewable energy sector is waiting for skilled professionals who can bridge the gap between tradition and transformation. Contact Becca Scears, specialist Recruitment Consultant, via the link below for help identifying where your transferable skills could take you, or to discover how our staffing solutions can benefit your business.
