The Future of Energy Talent: A Deep Dive with ENGIE’s Auragni Jeanson
The energy sector is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by the urgent need for sustainability and technological innovation. Attracting and developing the right talent is no longer just a HR challenge; it’s a strategic imperative. ENGIE, a leading utility committed to becoming “the best utility of the energy transition,” understands this implicitly. We spoke with Auragni Jeanson, Group Vice-President People Development & Diversity at ENGIE, to explore the evolving landscape of energy talent and what the future holds.
The Rise of the ‘Multi-Expertise’ Engineer
Traditionally, energy companies focused on specialized engineering roles – electrical, mechanical, chemical. That’s changing rapidly. “We’re seeing a huge demand for engineers who can bridge disciplines,” explains Jeanson. “Someone who understands electrical systems and data analytics, or has a strong foundation in industrial engineering coupled with AI expertise.” This isn’t just about having a broader skillset; it’s about the ability to integrate different technologies to optimize energy production, distribution, and consumption.
This trend is fueled by the increasing complexity of energy systems. Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are inherently intermittent. Managing this variability requires sophisticated algorithms, predictive modeling, and smart grid technologies. According to a recent report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), investment in grid infrastructure needs to triple by 2030 to support the growth of renewables. This translates directly into a need for engineers who can design, build, and operate these advanced systems.
Pro Tip: Future energy engineers should prioritize coursework in data science, machine learning, and cybersecurity alongside their core engineering disciplines.
Graduate Programs as Talent Accelerators
ENGIE’s Graduate Programs are a prime example of how companies are proactively addressing the skills gap. These programs aren’t just about onboarding new graduates; they’re about providing structured rotations across different business units. “We want our young engineers to experience the entire energy value chain,” says Jeanson. “From production and storage to grid management and customer solutions.”
This approach offers several benefits. It allows graduates to discover their passions and strengths, fosters cross-functional collaboration, and accelerates their development. It also helps companies retain top talent by demonstrating a commitment to their growth. Similar programs are gaining traction across the industry. For example, Shell’s Graduate Programme offers rotations in various technical and commercial areas.
Cybersecurity: The Unseen Energy Skill
As energy systems become increasingly digitized, they also become more vulnerable to cyberattacks. “We are a critical infrastructure provider, and therefore a prime target,” Jeanson emphasizes. “Protecting our networks and data is paramount.” This has led to a surge in demand for cybersecurity professionals with expertise in industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT).
The World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2024 highlights the growing sophistication of cyber threats and the need for a skilled cybersecurity workforce. Energy companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity training and recruitment to mitigate these risks.
Diversity & Inclusion: A Performance Multiplier
ENGIE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion isn’t just a matter of social responsibility; it’s a business imperative. “Diversity drives innovation and improves decision-making,” Jeanson asserts. The company’s “Fifty-Fifty” program, aiming for 40-60% female representation in management roles by 2030, demonstrates this commitment.
Research consistently shows that diverse teams outperform homogenous teams. A McKinsey report found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 25% more likely to achieve above-average profitability.
Did you know? Companies with more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenue due to innovation, according to Boston Consulting Group.
The ‘Global Citizen’ Engineer
Auragni Jeanson’s own career path – spanning India, Australia, the Netherlands, Malaysia, the US, and France – exemplifies the value of a global mindset. “Exposure to different cultures broadens your perspective and enhances your problem-solving skills,” she explains. “It’s about understanding different ways of thinking and adapting to new environments.”
Energy companies are increasingly operating on a global scale, requiring employees who can navigate cultural nuances and collaborate with international teams. This trend is likely to accelerate as the energy transition becomes a global effort.
The Future is Hybrid: Blending Physical and Digital Skills
The future energy professional won’t be solely focused on traditional engineering disciplines or purely digital skills. The most successful individuals will be those who can seamlessly blend the two. They’ll understand the physics of energy systems and the power of data analytics. They’ll be able to design and maintain physical infrastructure and develop and deploy digital solutions.
This hybrid skillset will be crucial for driving innovation and accelerating the energy transition. It will also require a lifelong learning mindset, as the energy landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace.
FAQ
Q: What are the most in-demand skills for energy engineers right now?
A: Data analytics, machine learning, cybersecurity, and expertise in renewable energy technologies (wind, solar, hydrogen).
Q: Are graduate programs essential for a career in the energy sector?
A: While not always essential, they provide a structured pathway for development and can significantly accelerate your career progression.
Q: How important is diversity and inclusion in the energy industry?
A: Extremely important. Diverse teams are more innovative, make better decisions, and are more likely to achieve above-average profitability.
Q: What advice would you give to students considering a career in the energy sector?
A: Be open to new experiences, embrace lifelong learning, and develop a global mindset.
Learn more about career opportunities at ENGIE: https://jobs.engie.com/
What skills do you think will be most important for the next generation of energy professionals? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
