Australia’s gas industry needs an image “makeover” to address its widening age gap and shortfall of skilled workers, according to new research from the International Gas Union.
Gas industry advisor, Barbara Jinks (pictured alongside) will present findings from the three-year research project, which investigated key issues affecting the attraction and retention of talent in the gas industry in 25 countries, at the Australasian Oil & Gas Conference (AOG).
Jinks said the research data showed the Australian gas industry was viewed as a less attractive career option when compared with alternative industries, particularly among young people and women.
“The research concluded that to be more attractive, the gas industry needs a “makeover” in the form of a coordinated marketing campaign to communicate the industry’s career benefits,” she said.
Jinks said the research had confirmed a significant age gap in the Australian gas industry and found that major demographical changes are on the way, with as many as two-thirds of employees planning to retire in the next 15-20 years in some regions.
“It was also surprising to learn that over 50 percent of retirees return to the industry on a part-time basis,” she said.
Jinks said the research showed few gas companies are adequately preparing for the significant transition in their teams, with many of the workforce reaching retirement age.
The International Gas Union research included a consideration of a variety of factors, including the perception of a career in gas operations by both older and younger generations, evidence of an age/skills gap, recruitment, retention, training and knowledge management.
Jinks’ AOG Conference presentation will include case studies demonstrating how the implementation of a workforce management model contributes to improved levels of employee satisfaction, increased recruitment and retention, lower voluntary turnover, reduced stress and incidents, and increased company profit.
She said she hoped delegates would come away from the conference realising: “that maintaining an adequate workforce in the gas industry is achievable with effort, planning and a willingness to look at the issues”.
Jinks’ presentation will be just one of the highlights of an entire session dedicated to resourcing and the challenges of sourcing and retaining skills in a competitive market.
AOG will also join forces with leading universities and energy employers to encourage the next generation of oil and gas leaders at the AOG Graduate Careers Day on 22 February.
AOG will take place at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from 20-22 February 2013.