Participation of women in the energy industry rose almost 20% during 2020; despite a nationwide trend of women dropping out of the workforce, due to the complications related to the covid-19 pandemic, according to a new study by the Energy Workforce & Technology Council.
Firstly, the study comes after a collaboration of the Council with Accenture; the study draws on insights on approximately 250,000 workers, including more than 63,000 in the United States.
Secondly, this year’s report reflects jobs figures through January 2021; indeed, it uses a revised methodology, which also considers race and ethnicity dimensions along with gender.
Thirdly, according to the statement by the Council, the study surveyed 25 companies, covering approximately 250,000 working men and women globally. This includes more than 63,000 employees in the United States.
Moreover, the study found that the percentage of women in the energy sector rose to 19%; almost reaching the Council’s 20% goal set in 2018; and up from 16% that year. Nevertheless, this figure trails women’s 47% representation in the overall U.S. workforce.
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Women left U.S. workforce at greater rates during 2020
In addition, the study highlights that companies in the energy technology and services sector globally can increase women participation; as well as equality and leadership advancement for women and minorities, in the areas of parental leave; mentorship programs; and also telecommuting.
Furthermore, the study makes some suggestions or recommendations to enhance the resilience of the future energy workforce; to attract diverse, innovative talent; also, strengthen employee value propositions and identify new sources of talent to shape the future of the industry.
Also, to focus on retention; keeping women and ethnic minorities in the workplace; as well as amplify advancement opportunities; mentorship and leadership role-modelling. About the matter, Leslie Beyer, the Council’s CEO, said. “This year’s study results are encouraging, especially considering the pandemic-related jobs losses that peaked at more than 100,000 in the energy services sector.”
Finally, she also remarked. “As women and minorities left at larger rates from the overall U.S. workforce, this brings greater pressure on oil and gas companies that are pursuing inclusion and diversity goals, and that is a challenge. Diversity will remain key to creating the new ideas that companies need to deliver a safe, affordable and sustainable low-carbon future.”
