Training
The future of vocational training
Comparing attitudes towards traditional and renewable energy trades. T
he job market is evolving, and so are young people’s choices in vocational training. Traditional trades like electricians and mechanics have always been seen as stable, well-paid careers. However, renewable energy jobs, such as solar panel installation and wind turbine maintenance, are growing more popular due to increasing environmental concerns. This shiſt reflects changing values and career interests.
A recent survey commissioned by confused. com and carried out by market research agency Censuswide looked at 16-24-year-olds in the UK. The survey sought to understand their views on renewable energy trades versus traditional vocational subjects.
What trades are people most interested in?
The top 10 trades young people would be most interested in studying for a career are below:
1 Electrician 2 Mechanic 3 Bricklayer
4 Renewable Energy Technician 5 Carpenter & Joiner 6 Plumber
7 Solar Panel Installer 8 Biomass Technician 9 Plasterer
10 Wind Turbine Technician
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 22 | electrical wholesalerOctober 2024
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.
Why do people want to study 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%).
17.8% 15.8% 11.9% 8.9%
8.2% 7.8% 6.8% 6.7% 6.6% 5.8%
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.
How to access education for traditional trades vs renewable trades? More young people know how to apply for
“Renewable energy jobs, such as solar panel installation and wind turbine maintenance, are growing more popular due to increasing environmental concerns.”
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.
ewnews.co.uk
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