Energy Resources Aotearoa is welcoming the release of the Government’s proposals to redesign the vocational education and training system.

The consultation process provides an eagerly awaited opportunity for the energy industry to help reshape the vocational training system design to support a stronger industry role in the vocational system, says Energy Resources Aotearoa chief executive John Carnegie.

"The importance of the energy sector to our economy can’t be understated," says John.

"It keeps our industries internationally competitive, heats our homes and keeps the lights on."

John says New Zealand needs a workforce that can develop the right skills at the right time and shift seamlessly to where the job opportunities lie - from the exploration and production of oil and gas to power generation to the development and maintenance of NZ's power distribution system and the wider supporting service sector.

"To deliver on this aspiration, we need an education and training system that understands the sector's needs and supports students to find where their skills and learning can be applied most productively."

Energy Resources Aotearoa is New Zealand’s peak energy industry body. representing participants from right across the energy system, providing a strategic sector perspective on energy issues and their adjacent portfolios.

John says he is looking forward to collaborating on developing a fit-for-purpose, future-focused training regime for the energy industry that unlocks talent.

"A reliable, practical, and flexible vocational training system is integral to supporting us in achieving this," says John.

"To do this, we must find the right settings and funding models co-designed with industry input. We look forward to collaborating with the government and officials to unlock this over the coming months."

For further details about Energy Resources Aotearoa members and to learn more about the organisation's initiatives, please visit: www.energyresources.org.nz