My Energy Future, powered by OPITO, has issued a final call ahead of the weekend for applications to its global ‘My Energy Future Champions’ programme, with the deadline for applicants set for Monday 19th January. The initiative showcases young professionals who represent the future of the energy workforce, challenging 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 rapid development of new energy technologies are creating exciting career opportunities. The 2026 Champions will help showcase the region’s leadership in energy transition, share their own career stories and inspire the next generation to consider a career in energy.
Champions will begin their voluntary roles from January 2026, acting as influential voices across the My Energy Future platform, both online and in person. They will support My Energy Future’s mission to inspire and inform young people, encourage exploration of energy careers, and empower future talent to play an active role in delivering a sustainable energy future.
The industry is changing fast, but misconceptions still deter many from pursuing energy careers. Champions 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 demonstrate that the industry is innovative, inclusive and full of possibilities – from apprenticeships and higher education routes to career changes and skills-based training.
The programme was developed following the My Energy Future Barriers of Entry to Energy Sector global report, published at the end of 2024. Commissioned by OPITO and based on survey data from 4,000 participants worldwide, the research identified lack of knowledge as a key barrier, cited by 37% of respondents (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, apprentices and early-career professionals, career changers, employers and educators, and wider society. 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 the demand for skilled, passionate people has never been greater. With applications closing on Monday 19th January, I would encourage young professionals to act now, put themselves forward and share their story. Becoming a My Energy Future Champion is a unique opportunity to inspire others and help shape the future of 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, or to find out more about supporting the programme as an employer, visit:
https://www.myenergyfuture.global/my-energy-future-champions/
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