Green Economy Explained: Jobs, Skills, Impact | Workplus Ep. 12

Green Economy Explained: Jobs, Skills, Impact

In this episode of Workplus, host Richard Kirk sits down with Gordon Parkes, Executive Director of People & Culture at NIE Networks, to unpack the rise of green skills, emerging job opportunities, and the changing perceptions of apprenticeships. From heat pumps to smart meters, Gordon shares practical insight into how Northern Ireland can lead the way in sustainability-focused careers. With 58,000 new jobs projected and a skills revolution underway, this is a must-listen for parents, teachers, and anyone navigating the future of work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Green skills include any activity that directly or indirectly supports net zero by 2050
• “Dark green” jobs include EV charger installers and wind turbine technicians
• “Light green” jobs include planners, HR officers, and procurement roles
• Northern Ireland expects 58,000 green jobs in the next decade
• Heat pump installation is creating hybrid electrician-plumber roles
• Apprenticeships are a core talent strategy at NIE Networks
• Leadership roles in climate and sustainability are rapidly growing
• 40% of NIE Networks' senior leaders began as apprentices
• Collaboration with colleges is key for new roles like data analytics
• Green careers can support local economies and reduce fossil fuel imports

BEST MOMENTS
00:01:03. “58,000 extra jobs are forecast over the next few years.”
00:02:10. “An electric vehicle charger installer... that would be totally dark green.”
00:03:55. “Multi-skilled technicians will be needed in areas where previously there were specialists.”
00:05:18. “That’s the story we need to be selling here in Northern Ireland.”
00:07:22. “It's a fantastic service that we provide to society.”
00:08:29. “We have the latest count of 67 different job roles within our business.”
00:10:10. “The NIE apprenticeship program is now over 50 years old.”
00:13:01. “96% of those apprentices stay with us.”
00:16:01. “Smart meters will allow customers to regulate when they use electricity.”
00:20:13. “It’s all about the people and ensuring we look after them well.”

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