The future of vocational training is looking green shows UK survey

Traditional trades like electricians and mechanics have always been seen as stable, well-paid careers, however, renewable energy jobs are becoming increasingly popular due to increasing environmental concerns.

This was one of the stand-out findings of UK comparison site Confused.com’s survey of UK energy experts aged 16 to 24.

The survey focused on shifting career interests and values and how this is changing perceptions of renewable energy trades versus traditional vocational subjects.

The survey clearly shows the job market is evolving and so are young people's choices in vocational training.

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What trades are people most interested in?

The survey highlights the top ten trades people are interested in, with four spots being occupied by clean energy.

1. Electrician 17.8%
2. Mechanic 15.8%
3. Bricklayer 11.9%
4. Renewable Energy Technician 8.9%
5. Carpenter & Joiner 8.2%
6. Plumber 7.8%
7. Solar Panel Installer 6.8%
8. Biomass Technician 6.7%
9. Plasterer 6.6%
10. Wind Turbine Technician 5.8%

Traditional trades, essential for construction and maintenance, show a higher overall interest. Electricians and mechanics are notably the most popular, likely due to established career paths and access to education. However, renewable energy trades are emerging as attractive options, surpassing some well-established vocations such as plumbing and plastering.

When it comes to overall interest in either traditional or renewable energy vocational subjects, most young people stated they’d be interested in pursuing either (33%). This indicates that there’s trust in future job opportunities for those wanting to get into renewables.

Traditional trades vs renewable trades

Both traditional and renewable energy trades attract people for different reasons.

A high salary is a big draw for both (50% for traditional vs. 44% for renewable energy). Flexibility is also important (37% for traditional vs. 36% for renewable energy). Job security is key too, with traditional trades slightly higher (35% vs. 33%).

Environmental impact is a much stronger draw for renewable energy courses (25% vs. 18%). Renewable energy's 24% and 21% interest in its growth and job prospects exceed traditional energy's 22% and 19%. On the other hand, traditional trades have a higher interest in self-employment opportunities (21% vs. 18%).

Both traditional and renewable energy vocational courses are valued for similar practical aspects. However, renewable energy courses have a unique appeal due to their environmental benefits and future growth potential.

Accessing education for traditional trades vs renewable trades

More young people know how to apply for apprenticeships in traditional vocational courses (68%) than in renewable energy courses (56%). In the North East, 65% know how to apply for renewable energy apprenticeships, while only 46% know how to apply in the South East.

When asked about local colleges offering renewable energy courses, responses were mixed. About 40% knew these courses were available, 39% were unsure, and 21% said their colleges do not offer them.

There is some uncertainty about renewable energy courses at local colleges. But, many respondents know they are available.

Which jobs pay better?

Young people generally see electricians as offering the highest salaries. Next are renewable energy roles. They include renewable energy, wind turbine and biomass technicians. Traditional trades, like mechanics and plumbers, also have significant earning potential.

Electric vehicle charging point installer was the least selected for the highest salary (13.7%). However, it was seen as better paying than traditional trades like welder (12%), carpenter and joiner (11%), scaffolder (10%), roofer (9.6%), and plasterer (8%).

Barriers to pursuing renewable energy trades

According to Confused.com's survey, the biggest hurdle to pursuing renewable energy courses is a lack of information in schools. Over 43% of young people stated that they’d want information about available training programmes during school years, along with work placement opportunities during education.

Young people also believe there are few local jobs (25%), high training costs (24%), limited training locations (23%), and unclear job prospects (22.5%). They want higher apprenticeship salaries (41%) and more help finding apprenticeships (39%).

While traditional trades maintain a strong appeal, renewable energy vocational courses are increasingly seen as viable and attractive career paths.

To encourage this transition, discussions in schools about renewable energy options, along with access to training facilities while being financially supported will see more enter the renewable energy workforce.

Originally published on powerengineeringint.com