“As I thought about my career progression, I realised that I still have a strong interest to deepen my skills in Human Resources,” Hui Min shared. “But I also wanted to challenge myself with a role that requires more analytical thinking and offers a strategic purpose.”

Hui Min found her role in the Workforce Planning Branch at EMA’s Energy Capabilities Development Department resonated with her. She believes that many young people, like she once did, overlook the energy sector as they are unaware of the opportunities that it offers.

Reflecting on her interactions with youths, she noted that the sector is often seen as labour-intensive and not as progressive as other industries. Some even think the sector hires only engineers.

This perception is something which Hui Min and her team aim to change. “We are looking at exploring new and different ways to get youths more actively involved and cultivate an interest in them to join the energy sector,” she explained. “We want to broaden their perspective on what it means to work in the sector and show how people from different backgrounds can find value and meaning in their work. Importantly, we want the energy sector to be at the forefront of their minds when they think of an industry to join upon graduation, or even to pivot into.”

While there are growing opportunities especially in the green energy space, traditional roles in the power sector have also evolved over time. These roles provide youths with the opportunity to put their new ideas and innovative thinking to use. “For instance, it could be about how we can leverage different technologies such as generative AI to improve productivity and work efficiency,” Hui Min said.

To this end, she has been working with her team to better understand how youths view the energy sector and to tailor engagement and outreach activities to connect with them.

"I enjoy speaking with young people and students. It’s refreshing to hear their thoughts and concerns, and to see what I can share from my experience. I remember having a lot of questions when I was their age about career choices after graduation. And getting to hear others’ advice and their learnings was very helpful during that period.”

When asked for her tips to youths exploring career paths, Hui Min shared, “Take up internships. They give you the chance to experience first-hand what working in the industry is like. And take time to interact with colleagues, partners and stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of the work.”