My Energy Future, powered by OPITO, has launched a new global programme that showcases young professionals who represent the future of the energy workforce.
It challenges perceptions by sharing real stories, real experiences and real ambition from those already shaping the sector.
Across the UK and Europe, the journey to Net Zero and the development of new energy technologies are creating exciting career opportunities. My Energy Future’s 2026 Champions will help showcase the region’s leadership in energy transition, share their own career stories and inspire the future generation to consider a career in energy. The Champions will begin in January 2026, acting as influential voices across the My Energy Future platform, online and in-person, supporting My Energy Future’s mission to inspire and inform the next generation, encouraging them to explore careers in the global energy industry, and empowering them to share a sustainable energy future.
The industry is changing fast, but misconceptions still deter many from pursuing energy careers. Champions will help bridge that gap by speaking openly about their routes into the sector, the opportunities they’ve accessed and the future they see ahead. They will inspire future talent by showing that the industry is innovative, inclusive and full of possibilities - from apprenticeships and higher education routes to career changes and skills-based training.
Hazel Lince, VP of Strategic Partnerships for OPITO UK/Europe
The programme was developed following the ’My Energy Future Barriers of Entry to Energy Sector’ global report, published at the end of 2024, which highlighted the main barriers to entry for young people. The unique analysis, commissioned by OPITO, draws from survey data involving 4,000 participants from across the globe and provides insight into the key barriers to entering a career in the energy sector. Approximately 37% of respondents indicated a lack of knowledge as a barrier (Source: My Energy Future - Industry Research - OPITO).
Champions will be recruited from across:
- UK/Europe
- North America
- Middle East & Africa
- Asia-Pacific
- South America
Their stories will speak to:
- Young people and students exploring careers
- Apprentices and early-career professionals
- Career changers
- Employers and educators
- Broader society and influencers
Diversity across gender, background, job role, company size and energy discipline is central to the programme.
Hazel Lince, VP of Strategic Partnerships for OPITO UK/Europe, says, “The UK and Europe are leading the way in the journey to Net Zero, and we need young professionals who can champion the opportunities this brings. Our Champions will help change perceptions, celebrate diverse career paths and inspire others to build a future in energy.”
Young Professional Champions will ideally be:
- Under 30
- Working in, training for or apprenticing within the energy sector
- Experienced with 2–3 years within the industry
- Confident communicators
Candidates should be relatable, positive and comfortable using social media, creating video content, attending events and sharing their story. Enthusiasm, openness and authenticity matter more than job title.
To register your interest as an individual on becoming a My Energy Future Champion, or if you are an employer who wants to find out more about supporting the programme, visit https://www.myenergyfuture.global/my-energy-future-champions/