Pembrokeshire College recently hosted a groundbreaking workshop with the SPARC Alliance and RWE, aimed at reshaping how the energy sector communicates career opportunities to young people in the region.
The Reframing the Narrative event brought together industry leaders, educators and public sector representatives to highlight the real and immediate opportunities available within the local energy sector. Representatives from Valero, Dragon LNG and Trydan Gwyrdd Cymru joined discussions on how to better connect young people with rewarding energy careers.
Making Energy Careers Real and Relatable
While terms like “green jobs” and “net zero by 2050” are familiar, workshop participants agreed that these concepts often feel distant to young people. The group emphasised the importance of clear, relatable messaging that demonstrates how today’s skills ranging from welding and project management to software development and environmental roles already align with industry needs.
According to Offshore Energies UK (OEUK), the oil and gas sector continues to support nearly 206,000 UK jobs, with Pembrokeshire playing a central role. The challenge now is to build on this strong foundation by expanding the renewable sector while retaining essential expertise.
Key Themes Highlighted
- Clarity on real jobs and pathways rather than abstract promises.
- A balanced energy mix, recognising the ongoing importance of oil and gas alongside growth in offshore wind, solar and hydrogen.
- Skills that matter now, showcasing both technical and professional career routes.
- The power of real stories, using local role models – particularly women in energy – to inspire future generations.
Local Voices on the Energy Future
Dr Mark Picton of RWE explained:
“The energy trilemma is at the heart of everything we do – ensuring energy is secure, affordable and environmentally responsible. Pembrokeshire has a unique role to play. By combining the strengths of our oil and gas operations with emerging technologies like floating offshore wind and hydrogen, we can create resilient energy solutions and meaningful careers for local people.”
Dr Rob Hillier, SPARC Alliance Co-lead, added:
“This isn’t just about preparing for future jobs – it’s about showing young people that high-quality energy careers exist right here, right now.”
Next Steps
The SPARC Alliance is now:
- Developing curriculum resources linking energy and maritime careers.
- Sharing local career success stories to inspire underrepresented groups.
- Publishing a Mission Statement that unites education and industry to prepare a future-ready Celtic Freeport workforce.
📩 For more information, contact Hayley Williams at hayleyw@pembrokeshire.ac.uk
