Three young professionals got the opportunity of a lifetime to talk to ministers about their careers at a parliamentary round table.
Last month, three young people for the North East and Yorkshire made the trip down to London to support a parliamentary round table to discuss the future of the energy sector, including the future workforce.
The session was bursting with constructive discussion, underlining the importance of collaboration and shared ambitions.
Following the presentations from Northern Powergrid senior leaders to MPs, the MPs were keen to hear from the three young people. They were thrust into the spotlight as the MPs asked for their perspectives.
Being from different areas of the regions, with different backgrounds as to how their roles at Northern Powergrid came about meant they could provide unique perspectives on the attitudes of young people towards work, education and skills.
This was intriguing for MPs to hear and encouraged a question-and-answer session.
Tom, Thomas, and Joe made a compelling case for why apprenticeships are essential to closing the green skills gap and driving the green energy transition.
As the next generation of talent, they'll play a critical role in delivering a net zero energy system.
Tom Ardron, 20 years old from Pontefract, is on a year in industry with Northern Powergrid in their External Affairs department and took the opportunity to gain some experience and speak to some of the country's most senior decision makers.
Thomas Chandler, 20 years old from Whitley Bay, is a Craft Apprentice and was asked by his manager if he’d be interested in the volunteering opportunity.
He jumped at the chance to be able to provide real world insight as to what it’s like as an apprentice at Northern Powergrid and his job prospects.
Joseph Chaibi, 26 years old from Harrogate, is a Foundation Degree Apprentice coming towards the end of his programme, getting ready to take the next step.
He got to speak to ministers about how his programme has developed his skills over the four years and the benefits he has gained from the apprenticeship.
Dave Wilkins, Head of External Affairs at Northern Powergrid, said “The purpose of the meeting was to bring together MPs from our region to discuss our organisation.
“We want to outline our strategic priorities regarding network investment and deliverability—particularly in terms of skills—and highlight how we are supporting our region.
“The meeting saw a strong turnout from MPs and their teams, and we were also joined by Lord Blunkett who has been an advocate for skills and education throughout his political career.
“We had planned that after some brief presentations, the gathered MPs would have the opportunity to meet and chat with our apprentices and Tom.
“However, as is often the case, MPs deviated from the plan. They handed the mic to the three lads following our presentations, leading each to give an impromptu presentation of their own.
“They spoke about their courses, backgrounds, current work, and impressions of working at Northern Powergrid. It's fair to say that each one was excellent and truly stole the show!
“Mary Glindon MP, who sponsored the event, couldn’t speak highly enough of the three of them and commented how well it reflected on our organisation.
“She then offered us an opportunity for further discussion at the Grids Parliamentary group in the future and even gave them a tour of Westminster and the House of Lords.
“I want to extend my thanks for coming to London and representing our organisation.
“I also want to commend the Tom, Thomas and Joseph for representing us and their respective areas of the business so brilliantly, showcasing the character and values that make me incredibly proud to be part of this team and organisation.”
Read more about the work Northern Powergrid do in your area on their website.
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