GWS Academy head encouraging industry collaboration at the 10th International Maritime Congress in Poland

The Head of GWS Academy, Aleksandra Gajewska-Niemyt, had the privilege of participating in panel discussion to the challenges from the growing demands of skilled labor in the wind industry. The panel's primary focus was on finding effective ways to promote the wind industry to young and skilled individuals who are highly sought after in today's market.

The questions pondered were:

1. How can we advertise the industry to young engineers, electricians, mechanics, and university graduates?

2. Moreover, how can the industry come together to achieve this common goal?

It was clear to all that cooperation among different industry sectors is not just essential but also inevitable. Particularly, the Global Wind Energy Council has estimated that the need for new skilled technicians in the industry will rise to approximately 30,000 annually. To meet this surging demand, the number of wind technicians must increase by 33%, from 426,700 in 2021 to 568,800 in 2026.

To accomplish this, the industry must join forces, as Maritime Academy and GWS Academy recently did, so we can effectively prepare a skilled workforce to meet the imminent needs of the offshore wind industry. 

Additionally, another challenge related to education was addressed – the scarcity of specialists who are willing to dedicate their professional careers to educating others. Many of these experts are employed by international companies, earning substantial salaries that make them less inclined to pursue university careers with comparatively lower remuneration.

Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort and innovative solutions. The industry need to foster partnerships between academic institutions, industry leaders, and government entities. By establishing attractive incentives and rewards, experienced professionals should be encourage to take up teaching positions, enriching the education system with their expertise.

Together, we can bridge the gap between industry demands and educational offerings, inspiring and equipping the next generation of professionals to thrive in the offshore wind industry.