Seize the day – Exam results and bridging skills gap

In the wake of A-level results and as GCSE results are read, Kate Davies urges utilities leaders to seize an opportune moment to make career opportunities in the sector visible - especially for those inclined to take vocational routes forward.

This time of year, as national exam results are released, is as relevant to employers as the young people nervously awaiting verdicts on their GCSE and A-level performance.

As they read these results, they move closer to making choices about their future and for many, the appeal of taking options which allow them to earn while they learn is growing. While a record number of students are being accepted onto university courses this year, we at EU Skills are encouraged to hear that increasing numbers are looking for alternatives such as apprenticeships and training schemes. It is more important than ever to highlight these alternative options for achieving qualifications and employers in the energy and utilities sector have been working hard to ensure there are clear routes into employment within the industries as a result. 

We are all very aware of the need to attract young people to join the energy and utilities industries to help fill the 200,000 vacancies predicted over the next ten years. Through collaborative working with more than 67 employers via the Energy and Efficiency Industrial Partnership, EU Skills is proud to be driving initiatives forward to bridge this gap.

Employer led schemes include apprenticeships, youth entrant schemes and traineeships and are all designed to give young people a head start in careers they may not otherwise have thought about. 

“This is about more than “doing the right thing”, it’s about collectively working to ensure routes into our industries are clearly defined and accessible, ensuring the sector continues to plan for its future.”

Work has also led to the development of pioneering degree level apprenticeships which, along with the many other apprenticeships available, are key to providing a pathway into the sector.  There are many opportunities available for those who have achieved academically, and those who may not have achieved the top grades. 

Most recently, we have been working with Eon on a paid traineeship programme in Customer Service, providing valuable work experience for 16-24 year olds and potentially also leading to a 12 month apprenticeship. 

We are also supporting leading regional employers in our sector on a Youth Engagement Programme that is supporting individuals achieve quality work experience and progression into the world of work. The initial Pilot was so successful that a number of other organisations across the UK have signed up to deliver similar schemes.  

One key resource which has been developed in partnership with employers to help attract young people to the sector is our new Talent Source Network, a networking site which provides a real insight into our industry and the jobs and careers available. On joining the network, members have access to information on the wide range of opportunities available and also benefit from privileged access to employers and training. Employers in the network benefit from being able to engage directly with those interested in their industries. We are passionate about supporting the network to grow and develop and would welcome hearing from any employers keen to get involved. 

Above all, we would encourage employers across the sector to start thinking about their future workforce requirements now, and to look at how best to engage young people – at all times, but especially at sensitive moments like exam results.

If you are already working with apprentices you will know that the programmes are a great way to help strengthen your workforce with new talent and ensure that skills which have built up through the years are passed on to new recruits.  If not, then we would encourage you to explore the options available and we have an expert team on hand if you need any advice or support in doing so. 

This is about more than “doing the right thing”, it’s about collectively working to ensure routes into our industries are clearly defined and accessible, ensuring the sector continues to plan for its future, while continuing to provide efficient services for today.

The focus on A-level and GCSE qualifications and resulting university places is understandable, but with increased numbers looking for apprenticeships and training schemes we hope that more employers will follow the trend and explore how they can provide opportunities for attracting young people into their organisations. 

With employers continuing to lead on skills development coupled with increasing opportunities and the emerging success stories, young people cannot fail to seriously consider a career in the energy and utilities sector.