The offshore wind industry is blowing up (pun intended) and the demand for skilled workers is skyrocketing faster than a turbine on a windy day.
The US will require an estimated 105,000 industry workers by 2030,
the UK will require an increase of 70,000 industry workers by 2030,
and China will require another 600,000 industry workers by 2030.
But as we all know, you can't build an offshore wind farm with a shortage of skilled workers.
So, where are all the qualified professionals?
Well, for starters, the offshore wind industry is a relative newcomer on the scene, and not enough people have the necessary skills and training.
Plus, it's not just about being able to install turbines, there are multiple levels of expertise required, from project management to HSE and stakeholder engagement professionals, to name but a few.
Another problem is that the industry is growing at such a rapid pace that training programs can't keep up. And let's not forget, the industry is global, so the lack of standardisation in training and qualifications is only making things worse.
In simple terms….the skill shortage will be a contributing factor to a slow down in the growth of the sector, if the skilled workforce doesn't grow in line with development.
So, what's the solution? A three-pronged approach: the industry needs to invest in training and education programs, governments need to provide support for these programs, and there needs to be standardisation in training and qualifications worldwide.
And let's not forget, a potential relaxation of immigration or visa methodology by governments to ensure the talent is available to execute the developments and deliver the sustained growth.
The facts speak for themselves, the offshore wind industry is facing a massive skills shortage, but with the right investments, policies, and training, we can build a skilled workforce to meet the growing demand. But we better act fast, before the wind blows us away!"
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