Earlier this year, Northern Powergrid launched its youth insight panel “Northern Powergrid: Focus for Future” which has gone from strength to strength, engaging young people in conversations that could influence the business.
Through this work with Solutions for the Planet, Northern Powergrid is getting young people involved in business development from as young as 14.
The panel gives an insight into what it’s like to work for the electricity distribution operator and have their opinions considered by experts in their fields.
James, 16 from Morpeth in Northumberland, is a panel member who has really enjoyed the sessions so far, hearing from people across Northern Powergrid about the work they are passionate about and how it can influence change – and power new careers.
This week (11 – 15 November) is ‘Tomorrow’s Engineers Week’ an opportunity to shine a light on inspiring engineers and technicians, shaping young people's perceptions of the industry.
For young people like James, this is invaluable experience as he plans to become a mechanical engineer when he is older.
He said: “This opportunity will help shape my future by giving me an insight into how industry works, which is very interesting in itself, because I want to work in engineering.
“I have learnt more about how the electricity grid, and the business side of Northern Powergrid’s work as I’ve heard from experts, so it is interesting to learn from them on the panel.
“Being part of the panel has helped develop my skills, such as communication and teamwork, it’s a place where my opinion gets heard and gives me a chance to work with people from around the North East. “
Today (Thursday) senior leaders from both Northern Powergrid and Solutions for the Planet are celebrating the promise of these young people and encouraging their passion into engineering.
Head of Sustainability and Regional Engagement, Siobhan Barton, said: “Our youth insight panel is a great way for young people to understand what a career in the energy sector looks like and to understand the variety of roles we have at Northern Powergrid.
“The opportunity to nurture the engineering passion of young people can help us grow as a business because they have a fresh way of looking at problems and finding solutions that we might not have thought of.”
Jen Baughan, CEO of Solutions for the Planet, said, "Our Youth Insights work shows that young people are eager for personal growth and value experiences that build their knowledge, skills, and confidence.
“A Youth Insights Panel helps a business strengthen its talent pipeline while also increasing social value and highlighting the significance of future customers and employees.
“We are thrilled to be working alongside Northern Powergrid developing this important work with young people."
For more information about the work of the youth insight panel “Northern Powergrid: Focus for Future”, visit Northern Powergrid’s website.
Visit Solutions for the Planet’s website to get young people involved decision making in your workplace.
Tomorrow’s Engineers Week takes place annually, usually during the first week of November, and is a week-long celebration of engineering.
It’s designed to highlight to young people that engineering is a creative, problem solving, exciting career that improves the world around us.
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