A recent report suggests that over the next 30 years, 80% of the oil industry will be completely wiped out due to the ever-increasing social and environmental demand for greener energy. (link)
This startling statistic raises the question, can professionals in the oil industry evolve their skills to be part of the future of energy? In this article we are going to look at key skills from the Oil and Gas Industry that can be transferred to the Energy Transition market.
Why consider moving into Energy Transition?
Due to the declining demand for oil, natural gas, and chemical energy, there has been a significant decrease in the number of jobs within the oil job market. In 2020, according to a report published by Deloitte, the U.S. eliminated 107,000 oil and gas jobs between March and August. Therefore it is essential for employers and governments to provide additional support and training for people within the oil market. This transition will not only help individuals by creating new job opportunities, but it is also essential to ensuring a successful energy transition. Due to the rapid growth of the renewable energy market, there is a significant skills shortage. Therefore retaining and retraining oil and gas professionals is fundamental to the future success of the energy market.
“Skills that exist today in oil and gas are absolutely going to be essential for creating the clean energy solutions of tomorrow.” says David Clark, Aberdeen-based chief executive of Vysus Group (formerly Lloyds Register Energy). (Link)
Engineering Skills
With an ever-increasing demand for Renewable Energy, the need for energy Engineers is predicted to rapidly increase. All main areas of Engineering, including mechanical, chemical, industrial and electrical all have elements that can be transferred into the renewable energy space. Many of the skills from energy engineering can be transferable, however additional training and upskilling may be needed to adapt to the different market and work environment.
Offshore Skills
If you have experience working on Offshore Oil and Gas Projects there are a number of skills and professions that are transferable to the renewable energy industry, including Engineering, Construction, Health and Safety and Management. Many offshore renewable energy projects such as offshore wind, wave, and tide projects have similar infrastructure, technology, and processes, so these skills and offshore experience can be extremely sought-after within the Energy transition market.
Health and Safety
Whilst many industries have sector specific training, certificates and challenges, a lot of the skills and experience gained in Oil and Gas Health and Safety positions can be transferred to Energy Transition. Showing you have experience in Energy Health and Safety and have the relevant skills such as knowledge about safety regulations, decision making skills and strong communication skills, will put you in good stead when you are looking for a new role in the Energy Transition market.
Want to find out more?
If you are currently working in the Oil and Energy market and would like to find out more about opportunities within Energy Transition, please contact Simon Calvert [email protected] to find out more.
