The increasing demand for energy, coupled with finite resources has created a need for sustainable and innovative solutions. While the industry now battles with an #energycrisis, it is also faced with another pressing issue: a shortage of engineering talent in the industry.
Why is there a shortage of engineering talents?
With STEM campaigns constantly being implemented globally to attract and produce more engineering talents, reality reflects that it is not enough to encourage and retain young talents.
As the industry becomes increasingly complex, new technologies and regulations are constantly emerging at a rate that the current market is not ready for. This requires engineers to have a wide range of skills and knowledge, which can be difficult to find in one individual. Another reason would be that the energy industry is facing a demographic shift, with many experienced engineers nearing retirement age. This means that there is a limited pool of experienced engineers available to replace them.
Although a shortage of talent coupled with an ongoing energy crisis can seem like daunting challenges, this situation can present itself as an opportunity for some people out there, namely freelancers. Freelancers are independent contractors who work on a project-by-project basis, rather than being employed by a single company. This allows them to have a greater degree of flexibility and control over their work, which can be particularly appealing to engineers who want to work on specific projects or in specific areas of the industry. Typically, freelancers find their projects via networking. Nowadays, freelancers can easily create an account on online marketplaces such as Trees Engineering to find local and international missions.
Why Freelance?
An Abundance Of Choice
One of the main advantages of freelancing in engineering is the ability to work on a variety of projects. In a traditional employment setting, engineers may be limited to working on projects within their specific company or sector. However, as a freelancer, engineers can choose to work on projects that align with their interests and skills, and that is in high demand. For example, a freelancer engineer with experience in renewable energy can choose to take on projects related to solar or wind energy, while a freelancer engineer with experience in oil and gas can take on projects related to exploration and production.
Remote Option
Ever thought that you could’ve been doing your work at home? Another advantage of freelancing is the ability to work remotely. Although remote work is not the best fit for every engineering talent out there, it remains an attractive choice for others. With the use of technology and digital platforms, freelancers can work from anywhere in the world, which can be particularly beneficial for those who want to work in remote locations or in countries with a high demand for engineering talent. This can also be beneficial for companies, as it allows them to access a global pool of engineering talent, rather than being limited to the talent available in their local area.
Finances
You might be surprised but freelancing in engineering can also provide greater financial stability. Experienced or skilled talents could expect to make a lucrative amount of money if they land the right client. Engineers who freelance can charge higher rates for their services than those who are employed by a company. In the face of ongoing crisis and talent shortage, freelancers can also charge a higher rate and negotiate their rates based on the value of their skills and experience.
Remaining optimistic, we would like to think that there is a silver lining in any dire situation. With a chance to fully utilise their skills and earn more money, freelancers in engineering would find that in the face of current challenges, there is a tremendous opportunity for innovation by better adapting to a new work model. As the demand for energy continues to rise and resources become scarce, companies and governments are looking for innovative ways to meet the energy needs of the future.
Interested in #freelancing and joining #newenergy projects? Create a profile on www.trees-engineering.com today. For inquiries, email contact@trees-engineering.com.