UK initiative targets fusion skills and future workforce

Tuesday, 20 August 2024

The programme will also support outreach programmes to schools as part of the goal of supporting the projected future requirements of an expanded workforce in the fusion energy sector in the coming years.

Two co-chairs of the UK Fusion Skills Council have been appointed to lead the programme - Jane Shannon, director of people and engagement at Tokamak Energy (pictured above, right) and Ryan Ramsey, COO of First Light Fusion (pictured above, left).

Shannon said: "We need to empower the next generation now in our quest to deliver fusion as a secure supply of clean and affordable energy to meet rising demand and address climate change."

Ramsey said: "Fusion is a multi-generational challenge, and the next generation of scientists, engineers and technicians will be an essential part in delivering commercial fusion energy for the benefit of all. Working in fusion is about unlocking a new, clean energy source and decarbonising our planet. I hope more of our best talent will join us on that journey to change the world."

Nick Walkden, Head of Fusion Skills at UKAEA, said: "The challenge and opportunity presented by skills growth for fusion is one that we all share, and we are dedicated to ensuring that the benefits of this important programme are felt throughout our sector."

The initiative aims to support future scientists, engineers and support staff with the skills and opportunities to enter the fusion industry, starting with 2200 people over the next five years.

A UK Fusion Cluster report in 2023 estimated 2400 people were directly employed in the industry, with nearly 40% holding PhDs - a proportion it said would decline as "the industry progresses away from proofs of concept towards the delivery of major infrastructure projects".

The other organisations represented on the UK Fusion Skills Council include: Fusion CDT;  Tae Technologies; Rullion; Kyoto Fusioneering; Oxford Sigma; EDF; digiLab; Jacobs; Atkins Réalis; Assystem; Frazer Nash Consultancy; Manufacturing Technology Centre; UK Research and Innovation; University of Bristol; University of Birmingham; University of Manchester; University of York.