Page 6 - TTWISept2022

Careers in Motion — Energy
page 6 electronic edition: www.teachingtodaywi.com

Why Choose energy?

critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. civil, mechanical, and electrical – and this
This is not the case. Skilled-trade profession- need is growing.
als and the work they do is fueled by hands-on Those considering an engineering path in
work that is challenging, both physically and the industry will need to earn an engineering
mentally. There is a shortage of these workers degree. Students may find it helpful to intern in
throughout the country in many fields, includ- an energy company. during their college career
ing in the energy industry. For years, society to help determine where their skills and inter-
has encouraged all students to pursue colle- ests will be the best fit.
giate education and as a result, we now find
ourselves with a gap between the supply and Business Careers
demand of craft workers.
While some apprenticeships may be Those interested in business careers
available to students right after high school, – accounting, human Resources, legal, Infor-
many will require the ability to earn a Com- mation Technology, marketing, public policy,
mercial Driver’s License and/or operate heavy and others – will find there are many paths
equipment, conditions that often necessitate to success in the energy industry. Some pro-
candidates be at least 21 years of age. fessionals find their way through a career
There industry offers tremendous oppor- change, starting in another industry and trans-
tunity for advancement within skilled trade ferring their skills to an energy employer.
positions. Others find employment in entry-level roles
after high school, while other positions will
For most people, jobs in the energy indus- Entry Level Non-Skilled Posi- engineering roles require additional education, depending on
try become careers. Those careers become the position. It is also common in the energy
professions of passion. Project teams become tions Engineers are integral to the energy industry to see business professionals “climb
family. For some, those are reasons enough to For those without relevant experience industry. These technical thinkers are respon- the ladder of success” into operational and
consider an energy career. For those who need looking for the proverbial “foot in the door sible for planning for the future of our nation’s leadership roles.
more convincing, consider the energy sector opportunity” in a labor, construction, heavy power delivery and today’s challenges related Article courtesy of Center for Energy
has careers that fulfill a variety of professional equipment, or related role, neither experi- to replacing aging infrastructure and support- Workforce Development, Get Into Energy
interests. ence nor a college degree is required. These ing clean-energy advancements. The industry
Want to work outside with your hands entry-level, non-skilled positions offer needs engineers of all disciplines – chemical,
in a skilled trade position – fixing, building, employment for those who want to develop
or repairing things? Check! We’ve got lots of useful competencies that can help acceler-
those opportunities. Drawn to the environment ate future career opportunities. Safety and
and opportunities to impact its future? Another skill-based training is provided on the job
check. What about finding solutions for things by experienced leaders and skilled profes- ENERGY ACROSS WISCONSIN
that don’t even exist yet, solving some of sionals. Those entering these positions are
the industry’s most complex challenges? We selected for their willingness to work hard, safe, sustainable, reliable
certainly have you covered there! Technical often in challenging environments, eager-
positions? Business operations? Entrepreneur- ness to learn, and ability to work as part of
ial challenges? An industry that supports a team. There are generally no education
diverse, equitable, and inclusive work envi- requirements for these positions, beyond a
ronments? Check. Check. Check. Check. Oh, high school degree or GED.
and did we mention, the industry pays well? Employees who succeed in these roles are
Really well. often candidates for apprenticeship positions
for skilled trade jobs.
getting Started: education
ideas to launch an energy Skilled-trade Jobs
Career Skilled trade employees, as their position
title implies, are those who have mastered the
With so many different jobs in the energy responsibilities of their craft. They have devel-
industry, it can be tough to navigate where and oped a special skill set that demands particular
how to start your career journey. Students and knowledge and abilities. In the energy indus-
career explorers often ask how they should try, most skilled tradesmen and women perfect
prepare themselves. More specifically, they are their skills over several years, generally two
curious about college requirements, opportuni- to four, but as many as six. College is not a
ties available from local technical schools and requirement for most of these jobs; instead,
apprenticeships, and what’s possible right after training is provided through apprenticeship.
high school. Individuals also prepare for these positions at
The simple answer is all these avenues local community colleges or specialty training
can lead to successful energy careers. Yet, they programs. A high school diploma or GED is
each start you in a different place. Not a right or required.
wrong place or a better or worse place, just a dif- Because those who work in skilled trade
ferent place. The industry is equally reliant on roles work with their hands, doing physi-
those with degrees and those who prefer to learn cal labor, it’s a common misperception that
through on-the-job training and experience. strength and brawn are more important than https://dairylandpower.com