The world is undergoing a transformative shift towards a cleaner and more sustainable power distribution network. However, the global shortage of qualified and skilled engineers poses a significant challenge to achieving our goal of reaching net zero.
To ensure the next generation of engineers can embrace technological advancements and integrate renewable energy into the grid, a collaborative effort between educational institutions and industry players is essential. So what are the reasons behind the shortage of engineers, the evolving skill sets required in this new digital era, and the importance of nurturing collaborative learning to bridge the gap?
The shortage of engineers
In almost every country around the world, except for a few industrial powerhouses such as China and India, the scarcity of STEM professionals is hindering the energy transition. In Europe, for instance, engineering workers are among the most in-demand occupation groups. The shortage varies between countries and economies, with developing nations facing complex challenges due to their need to build and expand power networks while incorporating renewable energy and digitalisation. Moreover, the industry is experiencing the departure of experienced engineers who are reaching the age of retirement, only increasing the void.
A PR problem
The engineering industry also has a crucial issue when it comes to attracting young talent – its public relations failures. While the transformation of the electrical distribution network is a dynamic field, the younger generation often fails to perceive the energy industry as exciting or lacks sufficient knowledge to make informed career choices. However, the energy industry plays a critical role in reversing the effects of climate change, something that Gen Z cares deeply about. By highlighting the industry’s contribution to sustainability, utilities can engage the younger generation and encourage their enthusiasm for sustainability to translate into working in the sector.
Digitalising engineering
The evolving power grid requires engineers with a new set of skills compared to their predecessors. As digitalisation plays a pivotal role in operating modern grids with distributed energy resources, engineers now need a deeper understanding of information technology in addition to electrical engineering. Traditionally, electrical engineers focused on hardware, while IT engineers specialised in software. However, the integration of both fields has created a knowledge gap that needs to be addressed. To meet the industry’s needs, education providers must adapt and evolve their programs accordingly.
Nurturing collaborative learning
Overcoming the challenges of the skills shortage and evolving job requirements requires a closer level of collaboration between industry and higher education providers. By offering enriched learning experiences, universities can better prepare students for future engineering roles. One approach is for businesses to propose real-world challenges and problems for students to solve, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to challenge the status quo.
Paolo Perani, Sustainability Manager at ABB, adds: “At ABB, we engage with students and education providers on many different levels from arranging company visits and running early talent programmes such as the ABB Discovery programme, to supporting scholarships and having our experts teaching on university courses. We offer internships and thesis possibilities too.
“Of course, our work is far from done – the ongoing shortage of engineers is proof of that! We, and other organisations in our industry, need to work closely with colleges to impart our specialist knowledge to future engineers and to open up even more entry-level opportunities. We need to encourage more students to visit our factories and R&D centres to see the applications of electrical engineering. That’s where the inspiration begins.”
Leveraging digital education tools
Digital education tools developed by the industry can support student learning and enhance their skills. For example, ABB has created a virtual reality program that provides 3D immersive training, allowing engineers to learn without being exposed to medium-voltage power. This innovative approach builds confidence, knowledge, and experience and can benefit both undergraduates and engineers already working in the field. By actively participating in the learning process, industry players like ABB can shape the skills and knowledge of future engineers, ensuring they are well-prepared to apply their learning in real-world scenarios.
Inspiring and cultivating a digital generation of engineers is crucial for achieving a sustainable future. Addressing the shortage of qualified professionals, attracting young talent, and adapting to evolving job requirements are key challenges that must be tackled through collaboration between educational institutions and industry players. By leveraging collaborative learning approaches, promoting the industry’s contributions to sustainability, and incorporating digital education tools, we can bridge the divide and empower the next generation of engineers to lead the energy transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable world.
