Youth Forum in Dubbo promotes clean energy jobs
Young people in regional NSW can now explore clean energy careers close to home, thanks to the inaugural RDA Orana Youth Forum 2024 supported by EnergyCo and ACEREZ.
An initiative of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana, the forum will bring hundreds of students from across the region to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) to discover exciting career pathways in one of the fastest-growing industries.
EnergyCo and ACEREZ have signed on to support the RDA Orana event, highlighting a shared commitment to empowering the next generation and fostering sustainable economic growth in the region.
The EnergyCo and ACEREZ Orana Youth Forum 2024, being held on Wednesday 6 November in Dubbo, will provide a platform for high school-aged students to explore exciting new careers in renewable energy, circular economy and sustainability.
EnergyCo and ACEREZ are dedicated to helping young people access information on career pathways and training options available in their own community. Developing a skilled local workforce aims to support the region’s expanding industries and contribute to long-term prosperity for the area.
The RDA event will feature speaker sessions and an exhibition hall showcasing more than 30 stalls from a diverse range of businesses, vocational, apprenticeship and trainee providers, alongside industry representatives, tertiary institutions and STEM organisations. There will also be an outdoor interactive space, providing attendees with hands-on experiences and networking opportunities.
EnergyCo and ACEREZ will facilitate a panel discussion with students about career opportunities in the renewable energy sector in the Central-West Orana region.
The Central-West Orana REZ is expected to support long and short-term job opportunities, with around 5,000 construction jobs at its peak. EnergyCo and ACEREZ recognise the importance of supporting local employment for community stability, resilience and growth. The Central-West Orana REZ is expected to bring lasting economic benefits, attracting up to $20 billion in private investment by 2030 and fostering a sustainable energy future for NSW.
Quotes attributable to EnergyCo Chief Executive James Hay:
“EnergyCo and ACEREZ are excited to speak with young people about the career opportunities available to them right within their community.
“The Central-West Orana REZ will not only deliver reliable, clean energy but also bring many other long-term benefits such as jobs and economic growth in the region.
“EnergyCo and ACEREZ are committed to working together and empowering our future generations, and this Youth Forum is a great start to that.”
Quotes attributable to ACEREZ Chief Executive Trevor Armstrong:
“ACEREZ will have more than 30 different types of construction jobs on offer and at least 40 non-construction jobs, so there’ll be something for everyone.
“There are many pathways to a successful career with ACEREZ and the forum is the perfect place to learn about them.”
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