In an Age of Digital Transformation, the Energy Industry Needs the Right People More than Ever

Digital transformation and automation continue to dominate discussion this week at CERAWeek in Houston, but with all of the progress the industry has seen in making operations more connected, efficient, reliable and sustainable, there is also an underlying concern that is growing by the day. It’s people.

To fully capitalize on the promise of digital transformation, the energy workforce must be matched with people with the right skills and mindset to get the most from these new tools and capabilities. And we have our work cut out for us to make that match a reality, with the National Association of Manufacturers predicting a need for 2 million additional skilled workers in the United States by 2025.

I was able to join an engaging panel on “Digital Skills & the Workforce” and share insights on this looming shortage with broad implications, as the energy industry is foundational to overall economic growth as well as global efforts to improve sustainability. The discussion focused on ways the industry can develop and recruit the right talent to move the industry forward.

Emerson is tackling this challenge with a three-pronged approach, focusing on different generations of workers and potential future workers. For those currently in the energy industry, it is critical to update skills to make the most of new digital tools. For hands-on learning, Emerson recently introduced a Portable Learning Platform – basically a small plant on wheels – where today’s workers can learn how to use the latest technologies and equipment. We also support a range of reskilling programs for employees of our customers.

For tomorrow’s workers, those in high school or just starting their post-secondary education, awareness is the key. These soon-to-be members of the workforce need to know that energy is a high-tech, digitally powered career option, and not necessarily that dark, dirty and distant career proposition that it might have been a generation ago. With more and more automation deployed in energy facilities, work is increasingly moving into high-tech command centers, where experts can monitor and manage multiple facilities from a single location.

For younger children and their parents, it’s all about reinforcing the importance of STEM education. Math and science courses need to be fun and engaging to create lifelong learners, and educators need to shine a spotlight on the exciting career opportunities in energy and beyond. Many energy industry players are supporting STEM programs, including Emerson with its long-running “We Love STEM” initiative. 

Digital transformation is a fundamental change for the energy industry. To get there, we will need a broad coalition to develop and recruit the right talent. Our success in this recruiting mission will deliver significant benefits in the industry and well beyond.