A new careers initiative has been created in Pembrokeshire, aimed at inspiring a more diverse workforce for the county and beyond in the sustainable power, renewables and construction industries.
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 the careers initiative SPARC.
The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles has welcomed the initiative.
It 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.
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 continue to be underrepresented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) based industries and gender disparity continues to perpetuate stereotyping and contributes to the UK gender pay gap. SPARC has been created in response to these issues.
Hayley Williams, Curriculum Development Manager at Pembrokeshire College 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.”
I have worked in energy sector around the Haven for 15 years but never had the type of guidance and support in school that made me think I could have a career in energy. With SPARC, this is about to change for the future generations of Pembrokeshire.
Naomi Bowen, Business Operations Manager, Blue Gem Wind
Find out how your business can support this engagement in Pembrokeshire Secondary Schools and College by contacting Hayley Williams, 07971 123464 or email h.williams@pembrokeshire.ac.uk.