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?
One hundred years ago, the workforce evolved from its primary focus on agriculture to industry. Today, the workforce is shifting from industry to… what? How are we training our students, as well as our existing workers and executives? Are we ready for a future world where the only experience that counts is the experience of learning and changing?