The Key Emerging Skills, Abilities, and Jobs in the Energy Transition

A recent article from the World Economic Forum highlights a study that utilized the Labor Market Foresight Model, developed by the Brazilian National Confederation of Industry (CNI). The study emphasizes that the global shift towards green energy is transforming the job market and the skills required. As renewable energy systems evolve, new jobs, skills, and professions are emerging, reshaping the employment landscape. It is crucial for job seekers and employers to understand the changing dynamics of the workforce in this rapidly growing sector.

According to the study, key skills in growing demand within the renewable energy sector include:

Quality Control: Ensuring products and processes meet performance standards.

Operational Analysis: Evaluating and optimizing project requirements, procedures, and materials.

Decision-Making: Balancing costs and benefits to make effective choices.

Customer Guidance: Understanding and addressing customer needs and motivations.

Critical Thinking: Using logic to solve problems and verify information.

Equipment Selection: Identifying the right tools for the job.

Workers will need certain abilities to thrive in the energy sector:

Creativity and Innovation: Generating fresh ideas and solutions.

Brainstorming: Producing diverse ideas early on.

Deductive Reasoning: Applying general principles to specific problems.

Mathematical Reasoning: Using math to interpret data and draw conclusions.

Certain work styles will be essential:

Leadership: Motivating teams toward shared goals.

Result-Oriented Mindset: Setting and achieving goals through continuous effort.

Analytical Thinking: Critically evaluating data to make informed decisions.

As the sector evolves, new roles are emerging, including specialists in energy storage, electric vehicle infrastructure, micro-grids, and wind farm performance monitoring. There will also be demand for renewable energy data analysts, asset managers, and cybersecurity experts to safeguard these systems.

The energy revolution is driving a major shift in the job market. To succeed, professionals must adapt by developing the right skills, abilities, and work styles. Those prepared for these changes will find numerous opportunities in this rapidly growing industry.