The UK Fusion Skills Council has launched a new initiative to support the growth of the fusion sector and workforce, appointing two new co-chairs to lead the programme – Jane Shannon, Director of People & Engagement at Tokamak Energy and Ryan Ramsey, Chief Operations Officer from First Light Fusion.
The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) says future scientists, engineers, and central support staff need to be given the skills and opportunities to enter the cutting-edge fusion industry. This goal has led to a collaboration between UKAEA, Tokamak Energy, First Light Fusion, and 17 other commercial organisations and academic institutions to support the fusion sector’s growing workforce with 2,200 people over the next five years.
In 2023, the UK Fusion Skills Council – comprising these stakeholders – produced a collaborative sector strategy for skills, informing and prompting a comprehensive skills programme led by UKAEA on behalf of the fusion sector to meet the needs of various companies and organisations across the industry.
This programme’s key workstreams are Academia, Industry and Skills Hub. The targets include:
- Increasing the number of apprentices and graduates within the sector;
- Universities increasing the number of post-graduate courses and doctorates;
- International partners increasing the post-doctoral training opportunities within fusion.
The programme also supports outreach to schools and STEM education innovations.
“We need to empower the next generation now in our quest to deliver fusion as a secure supply of clean and affordable energy to meet rising demand and address climate change,” said Co-Chair Jane Shannon “I’m honoured to be part of the UK Fusion Skills Council tasked by UKAEA with advising on and monitoring the strategic delivery of the skills and development programme. Our mission is to highlight the exciting opportunities the fusion industry has to offer, plus deepen and widen the talent pool so we are in the strongest position possible for this exciting new delivery phase of fusion technology.”
Co-Chair Ryan Ramsey commented: “I’m deeply proud to be joining the UK Fusion Skills Council on behalf of First Light Fusion. It is a vitally important collaboration on meeting the future skills requirements in fusion.” He added: “Fusion is a multi-generational challenge, and the next generation of scientists, engineers and technicians will be an essential part in delivering commercial fusion energy for the benefit of all. Working in fusion is about unlocking a new, clean energy source and decarbonising our planet. I hope more of our best talent will join us on that journey to change the world.”
Nick Walkden, Head of Fusion Skills at UKAEA, said: “The challenge and opportunity presented by skills growth for fusion is one that we all share, and we are dedicated to ensuring that the benefits of this important programme are felt throughout our sector. The UK Fusion Skills Council, chaired by Jane and Ryan, will be a core element that will enable us to do that, both now and for the future.”
Organisations represented within the UK Fusion Skills Council include: UKAEA, Tokamak Energy, First Light Fusion, Fusion CDT, Tae Technologies, Rullion, Kyoto Fusioneering, Oxford Sigma, EDF, digiLab, Jacobs, Atkins Réalis, Assystem, Frazer Nash Consultancy, Manufacturing Technology Centre, UK Research and Innovation, University of Bristol, University of Birmingham, University of Manchester and University of York.
