Energy in Motion: Sparking Career Curiosity in the Next Generation
What does a career in energy look like today? For many young people, the answer is evolving.
On June 10, 2026, Careers in Energy welcomed 70 youth aged 18 to 24 to Energy in Motion, a full-day, hands-on event at the Global Energy Show designed to help participants explore the many possibilities in Canada’s energy sector.
Real people, real career paths
The day kicked off with a panel of young energy professionals across fields like communication, engineering, information technology and project management, sharing how they found their way into the sector—including Energy Safety Canada’s Arvinder Bhullar, who spoke about his transition to his role as an Application Specialist.
Arvinder spoke openly about exploring several career options before finding his place in energy, reminding participants that a degree does not lock you into a single lifelong track.
“Keep exploring career paths until you find a space where you are excited to show up and contribute.”
The panelists’ stories highlighted a powerful truth: there is no single, linear path into energy—education, curiosity and transferable skills can open doors in unexpected places.
Getting hands-on with energy careers
After the panel, participants headed outdoors to interactive stations that brought different facets of the industry to life, from industrial cleaning machinery to mobile simulators that showcase realistic, high-risk driving scenarios with an 18-wheeler.
Together, these stations helped participants look past old stereotypes. They saw the sector through the lens of cutting-edge technology, technical operations and the people who make it happen.
Youth engagement critical to the future of energy
According to Careers in Energy’s National Labour Market Outlook, the sector is expected to need 72,600 workers, driven largely by retirements.
At the same time, young people remain underrepresented in the industry. In 2025, workers under 25 made up only 6.5 per cent of the energy workforce, compared to 14 per cent of the overall Canadian labour force.
“Energy in Motion was about more than introducing youth to potential careers—It helped them envision a place for themselves in a changing industry. As Canada’s energy sector continues to evolve, experiences like this can help build awareness, spark curiosity and support the next generation as they make informed decisions about their futures.”
Want to learn more about young people in Canada’s energy workforce?
The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services.
