Engineers can unlock net zero, but there’s a catch

Australia’s push toward net zero emissions hinges on the capabilities of its engineering workforce. New research from Engineers Australia and Mott MacDonald sheds light on both the opportunities and challenges in shifting engineers from traditional industries like coal, oil, and gas to the booming renewable energy sector. The findings point to significant potential, but also highlight hurdles that need to be cleared for the transition to succeed.

A key insight from the Making a Clean Transition report is the adaptability of engineers. Core capabilities like systems thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and project management are highly transferable, offering promising potential for those in thermal industries. While many engineers will make the transition smoothly, some will require additional support to successfully adapt to new roles.

One of the strongest recommendations is to focus renewable energy projects in regions where thermal energy communities already exist. Engineers are far more likely to remain in their profession and transition smoothly if they can continue working in their local areas. Establishing renewable energy projects within these existing hubs will minimise disruption to families and strengthen local economies. It also builds on the deep relationships and knowledge these engineers have cultivated within their communities over many years.

Australia’s broader engineering labour shortage is also a key issue. There are significantly more qualified engineers than are currently working in the profession. The report highlights the importance of re-engaging underrepresented groups, including women, older engineers, and migrants. These groups hold enormous potential to fill the workforce gap, and the report emphasises the need for targeted pathways to help them stay within the profession while transitioning into renewable roles.

Education and training are also critical. Rather than creating bespoke clean energy degrees, the report confirms the importance of continuing to embed sustainability into all engineering courses. This approach ensures that all engineers, regardless of discipline, are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for a net zero future. Micro-credentials and targeted upskilling programmes can also help engineers move more easily between sectors and industries, smoothing the transition into renewable energy roles.

The report also calls for greater policy coordination at all levels of government[PB1]?[LM2]?[PB3]?. Stable and consistent policy frameworks are essential for encouraging investment in clean energy projects and supporting a seamless workforce transition. Mapping transferable skills and incentivising employers to invest in training are key steps to accelerate the shift to renewable energy.

The pay gap between thermal and renewable energy sectors is another potential sticking point. Engineers working in coal, oil, and gas industries typically earn higher salaries than their peers in renewables, which makes the move less attractive. To encourage more engineers to make the leap, the report recommends offering non-monetary incentives like better work-life balance, improved job security, and roles that provide a sense of purpose. For many, the chance to make a positive environmental impact is a powerful motivator. Promoting this aspect could help close the salary gap and attract a workforce that’s more driven by purpose than pay.

Ultimately, Australia’s clean energy transition depends on a flexible and well-prepared engineering workforce. The report offers clear recommendations for how to move forward, but real progress will only happen with strong, sustained cooperation between government, industry, and educational institutions. By tackling these challenges head-on, Australia can not only meet its net zero goals but also position itself as a global leader in the renewable energy revolution.