Pembrokeshire is on the cusp of a transformative energy revolution, poised to reshape not only the local employment landscape but also extend its influence far beyond its borders. As we embark on this exciting journey towards a sustainable future, green energy skills clusters are forecasting a remarkable surge in local employment opportunities in south west Wales.
The Port of Milford Haven projects the current energy sector surrounding the Waterway could support 8,000 Welsh jobs by 2030, with plans for Celtic Sea floating offshore wind having the potential to create 10,000 new jobs across the region by 2050. If this generational opportunity is to be realised educators and training providers will play a pivotal role in preparing learners.
These opportunities also bring challenges, as the demand for skilled workers will be more than Pembrokeshire can supply. Females are still hugely underrepresented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) based industries and gender disparity continues to perpetuate stereotyping and contributes to the UK gender pay gap. In response to these issues RWE Renewables, Blue Gem Wind, Floventis Energy, Port of Milford Haven and Ledwood Engineering have joined forces to collaborate with Pembrokeshire County Council and Pembrokeshire College to create a careers initiative called SPARC, helping to inspire a new and more diverse workforce in Pembrokeshire and beyond.
The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said:
“It’s important we inspire young people to develop their STEM skills and consider future careers in renewable energy.
Women are under-represented in this sector, particularly in engineering. That’s why I’m so pleased that initiatives such as SPARC are enabling young people, especially girls, to discover the amazing opportunities available to them in this emerging employment sector.”
Curriculum Development Manager at Pembrokeshire College, Hayley Williams said:
“SPARC is no longer an idea; it has been made possible by genuine collaboration with industry and local secondary schools. Together we will feel confident of raising female ambition.”
Find out how your business can support this engagement in Pembrokeshire Secondary Schools and College by contacting Hayley Williams, 07971 123 464 or email h.williams@pembrokeshire.ac.uk.
