Young professionals |
International Hydropower Association Victoria Cardenas, Senior Communications Manager, IHA
The International Hydropower Association (IHA) is committed to youth engagement in the hydropower sector. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, the importance of engaging the next generation of professionals in sustainable energy practices cannot be overstated. IHA recognises that the future of the hydropower industry rests on the shoulders of today’s youth. Their fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and commitment to sustainability are crucial in driving the sector forward. The need for youth involvement in the
hydropower sector is underscored by several key findings. The International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) 2022 Global Employment Trends for Youth report highlights that the current workforce in the clean energy sector tends to be older. As these workers approach retirement, there is an urgent need to prepare the next generation to fill these roles. However, this transition will only be successful if young people are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Hydropower alone created 2.5 million direct jobs in 2022, with operations and maintenance accounting for nearly two-thirds of these positions. Yet, the sector faces a looming professional gap due to the retirement of a significant segment of its workforce within the next decade. The insufficient pipeline of young talent to replace these retiring professionals presents a critical challenge that must be addressed. IHA is actively working to ensure that youth
representation is a cornerstone of its activities. At the 2023 World Hydropower Congress, for instance, multiple sessions featured panellists under the age of 30, and some sessions were even led by youth, reflecting IHA’s commitment to engaging diverse voices. Similarly, during Hydropower Africa Week in Abuja, Nigeria, a session led by Student Energy highlighted the employment challenges faced by youth in
Above: Eddie Rich, CEO of the IHA, and Helen Watts, Executive Director of Student Energy, celebrate the partnership between the two organisations at COP28
Nigeria and explored strategies to bridge the gap for young people entering the workforce. To further understand the workforce challenges faced by the hydropower sector, IHA has also launched a survey in collaboration with students from the ESCP Business School. This initiative aims to shed light on the current and potential challenges the industry may face, particularly due to the impending retirement of a significant segment of the workforce and the need to ensure a robust pipeline of young talent to replace them. At COP28, IHA entered a strategic partnership with Student Energy, a global organisation dedicated to empowering young leaders in the energy transition. This partnership is designed to connect young people to the global hydropower industry, fostering a knowledge
exchange that benefits both the youth and the industry at large. The partnership between IHA and Student
Energy is a dynamic exchange where both parties contribute and benefit. Through this collaboration, young members of Student Energy will have the opportunity to engage with IHA’s global network of hydropower professionals, gaining insights into the industry, accessing career development opportunities, and participating in mentorship programs. This will empower them with a deeper understanding of sustainable hydropower development and the critical role it plays in the global energy transition. In return, Student Energy will connect IHA members to a global network of diverse youth perspectives, data, and evidence on youth engagement in the clean energy sector. This will allow us to better understand the needs and aspirations of the next generation and identify ways to support their integration into the sustainable hydropower community. This integration of youthful insights is essential for ensuring that the hydropower industry remains relevant and innovative as it adapts to future challenges. The hydropower industry is committed
Above: Rebecca Ellis, IHA’s Energy Policy Manager, on a panel at the 2023 World Hydropower Congress
40 | September 2024 |
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to continuing its efforts to integrate youth into the hydropower sector. Ensuring youth representation at all events, fostering partnerships like the one with Student Energy, and addressing workforce challenges are all part of this ongoing mission. As the hydropower industry evolves, the passionate minds and innovative spirits of today’s youth will be essential in steering the sector towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
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