The nature of work is changing, the traditional definition of white and blue collar is breaking. Digitalization and technology, especially since the 2014–16 price collapse, have launched a revolution in the energy industry, reshaping the competitiveness of production, introducing radical gains in efficiency, and creating virtuous cycles of change where data flows continue to drive innovation. To sustain this drive as the energy transition pushes the industry to reduce emissions, energy companies need to attract the best talents in science and technology. Whether due to a generational shift in environmental consciousness, entrenched misconceptions of the industry, or the perpetual gender struggle, there is no doubt that prompt action is required. What does young, high-tech talent seek in the work place? How can the industry adjust to meet the seismic cultural shift of a generation both defined and driven by technological advancement?
Rice University started its second century as a leading research and education institution. School leaders will share insights on the research agenda ahead, from the future of the workforce to creating and sustaining an innovation ecosystem, ensuring data integrity and privacy in the age of dark web and cyber espionage and more.