Energy Workforce Senior Director Energy Policy Maria Suarez-Simmons recently participated in a discussion hosted by Upskill Works at the Greater Houston Partnership to discuss the evolving landscape of Houston’s energy sector and its workforce. The event, titled “Talent and Workforce Trends for Houston’s Energy Evolution and Transition,” included Raul Camba, Accenture; Scott Marshall, Worley; Stacy Putman, INEOS and was moderated by Peter Beard, GHP.
The panel opened with an overview of projected increased energy demand through 2050 and the expected consumption patterns to illustrate the longstanding role of oil and gas as an energy fuel even well into the “energy transition.” The addition of renewable energy sources and increased efficiencies of hydrocarbons is why many groups describe the current cycle as “energy expansion.”
Suarez-Simmons highlighted the crucial role of adaptability in the face of energy expansion, emphasizing the need for diverse skill sets to foster innovation within the sector saying, “In addition to traditional engineers, companies will require talent with digital, analytic, software and economic capabilities, as the sector requires a myriad of roles to produce more energy in an increasingly sustainable way.”
Suarez-Simmons also noted the energy services sector in the Houston area alone comprises about a quarter of all energy jobs in the region, employing approximately 50,000 workers, and contributes roughly 350,000 jobs overall in Texas. With a dynamic and steadily growing workforce, Energy Workforce remains committed to supporting its Member Companies in recruiting and retaining top talent. The sector’s focus on emissions-reducing innovations and digitalization technologies calls for the best and brightest minds.
As the world’s energy demands continue to increase, Houston stands as a key player in shaping the future of the industry. Embracing diversity in talent is not just a matter of inclusivity, it is an essential step toward unlocking the full potential of innovative solutions. Energy Workforce leads the charge by benchmarking diversity in gender and race and subsequently creating training programs for companies to implement best practices.
If you are interested in learning more about Energy Workforce’s workforce training programs and best practice sharing, contact Peggy Helfert, Vice President Programs & Events.
Corry Schiermeyer, Senior Director Communications, writes about governmental policies for the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
