Transforming Careers in Energy:

SPARC Paves the Way for Women in Pembrokeshire

The future of green energy took centre stage last week as Year 8 and 9 students from schools across Pembrokeshire gathered for an inspirational industry day. Led by Pembrokeshire College as part of the innovative SPARC (Sustainable Power, Renewables and Construction Alliance) initiative, the event was held to give young women the opportunity to meet industry professionals and explore a career in renewable energy and construction.

Transforming STEM Education in Pembrokeshire

Since its launch on International Women’s Day 2024, we’ve been proud members of the SPARC alliance, working alongside industry partners, Pembrokeshire College and local secondary schools to change perceptions of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) subjects and address female underrepresentation in these fields.

The SPARC programme is already having a significant impact in schools. SPARC-trained teachers are delivering a comprehensive range of activities that align with the new curriculum for Wales to nurture capable creative, ethical, confident learners.

The SPARC student journey is designed to create the behavioural change needed to encourage more young women to consider non-traditional career paths and is delivered in three phases: early awareness in Years 7-9, decision making skills in Years 10-11 and peer mentoring for participants over the age of 16.

With only 10% of school learners currently studying STEM subjects, SPARC aims to increase this figure by a further 5% over the next ten years.

From Education to Employment

SPARC is already making waves in education, but its potential impact is even more far-reaching. Pembrokeshire’s coastal communities have faced significant socio-economic challenges, including limited career opportunities and lower social mobility. However, with Celtic Sea and Milford Haven Freeport set to attract £5.5 billion in investment, creating 16,000 green jobs, SPARC’s mission to ensure Pembrokeshire’s students are well-positioned to seize these opportunities could have a significant, positive impact on the local area.

Going forward, additional funding from the Swansea Bay City Deal will help the alliance achieve its long-term objective of inspiring up to 30,000 young people to consider a career in the renewable energy sector over the next decade.

Building Diversity in the Renewable Energy Sector

At Llyr Wind, we believe that cultivating diverse talent fosters the fresh perspectives and creativity needed to drive innovation in the green energy sector. Our investment in the SPARC alliance is just one way we are changing outdated perceptions of STEM subjects and creating pathways for women to become leaders in the renewable energy industry.

In light of the initial success of the project and the enthusiasm of everyone who attended last week’s industry day, we’re excited to see how SPARC’s groundbreaking approach will continue to shape our industry for the better and support Pembrokeshire’s future.