Empowering the Future Energy Workforce at IVECF 2026
How do we equip the next generation to lead the clean energy transition? With over 30 million jobs expected by 2030, demand for talent is rising fast, yet a growing green skills gap risks slowing progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 7.
On 8 April, Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), in partnership with the City of Vienna, Global Neighbours and Wien Energie, convened a youth-focused session at the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum (IVECF) 2026. Titled “Green Skills for the Future Energy Workforce: Bridging the Talent Gap,” the session focused on turning dialogue into practical pathways for young professionals.
Among the contributors was María Erla Marelsdóttir, Climate Ambassador at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iceland and SEforALL Board member. Her participation reflected Iceland’s continued support for advancing inclusive energy transitions and strengthening the next generation of energy leaders.
Putting youth front and centre
The session’s interactive fishbowl dialogue flipped the traditional format. Together with policymakers, industry leaders and training institutions, young participants explored the skills needed for the next decade, the gap between education and jobs and pathways into the workforce. The takeaway: skills alone are not enough. Access, exposure and systems that support entry into the sector matter just as much.
Mapping the gap in real time
As part of the session, an interactive “Green Skills Opportunity Board” captured key skills, barriers, opportunities and partner commitments. These insights will inform a Vienna Green Skills Call to Action, ensuring the conversation extends beyond the room.
Connecting talent to opportunity
A standout moment was the speed networking session, where young professionals connected directly with organizations across the energy and climate ecosystem, from utilities to international institutions. In parallel, a partner dialogue turned to solutions, exploring how to better align education, training and labour market demand and the investments needed to unlock youth participation at scale.
Equipping the next generation
Across every session, one message stood out: the energy transition will only succeed if it is inclusive, with young people at the centre of decision-making. The challenge now is to turn this momentum into sustained action through partnerships, programmes and investments that open doors for the next generation of energy leaders.
SEforALL is advancing this work by building youth capacity and expanding pathways into the energy sector. Learn more.
