Aotearoa New Zealand’s entire energy sector is undergoing a transformation as the nation seeks to decarbonise and embraces electrification. Yet, there is growing concern at the future shortfall of technical and engineering capability needed to transition to these outcomes.
Now more than ever, we need to build the size and capability of our workforce by supporting our people with ongoing learning and encouraging many more to join us.
The EEA is working jointly with Energy Resources Aotearoa to develop a comprehensive 2025 national energy workforce report and action plan. The Re-Energise 2025 project builds on the work completed in 2022 and responds to a request by our members to invest more time in this area and take leadership in aligning the sector on workforce strategy.
Workforce capability is one of our three key focus areas, with EEA continuing to invest in supporting the professional development of our workforce.
We are working with industry to provide a common, structured programme of learning and development, that supports current and future industry needs.
Specialised engineering and technical courses have been developed by industry, for industry, offering you high-quality learning and expertly targeted professional and capability development.
Professional Certificate in Power Systems Design
Designed and delivered in collaboration with ElectroNet, the Professional certificate in Power Systems Design (PSD) was created for graduate engineers, paraprofessionals, and seasoned engineers to expose them to various aspects of power systems design in the Aotearoa New Zealand context.
These courses are designed to fit around full-time work, and are delivered via a mix of self-directed learning, webinars and scenario-based assessments.
Micro-credential in Overhead Line Design
The EEA in partnership with the Overhead Line Design Forum and a range of line design experts have developed the eight courses that comprise the micro-credential. Based on AS/NZS 7000:2016 and HB 331:2020, and incorporating tools provided by members of the forum this micro-credential continues to grow and improve to meet the needs of distribution line designers.
The micro-credential in Overhead Line Design has been developed by experienced distribution overhead line designers to meet the skills needs of their colleagues and those wishing to become line designers.
Safety in Design (SiD)
Based on the EEA’s Safety in Design Guide (2016) the purpose of the Safety in Design (SiD) course is to give participants an understanding of the contribution of a variety of perspectives to SiD, and practice using a selection of risk-based tools and techniques in real-world scenarios.
Safety Manual Electricity Industry (SM-EI) Assessments
The EEA and the Safety Standards and Procedures Group (SSPG) have developed quizzes designed to support understanding of the digital SM-EI and industry safety rules for employers and individuals.