Creating Equitable Workforce Development Models for Clean Hydrogen Transition: Insights from Industrial Management

Abstract

The transition to a clean hydrogen economy is an important part of global decarbonization strategies, with prospects for sustainable energy systems and economic development.) In this study, we examine a new potential pathway for workforce development in the clean hydrogen sector, drawing on evidence from the skills gap, equity, and industrial management literature. We used a mixedmethods approach combining interviews with stakeholders, systematic literature review, and secondary data analysis to assess global workforce readiness, graduation rates and gender balance, and uptake of training by region. Key findings include: Major skills shortages – especially the manufacturing of electrolyzers, the engineering of hydrogen storage systems and the maintenance of fuel cells (72% of stakeholders indicated technical skills as the main gap). Gender and equity issues remain: Women and underrepresented groups make up just 28% of the workforce. Geographical gaps are apparent within the rankings, where Europe and North America lead in further training programs, but the gaps in Africa and South America evident. Examples include Germany's "H2 Talent Hub," a collaborative approach which shows the impact of using publicprivate partnerships to tackle workforce gaps and transfer knowledge. Thus the discussion will highlight the necessity and importance of implementing models that focus on competencies, licensed policies that advance equity, and partnerships among stakeholders to forge a highly skilled and inclusive workforce. Addressing equity barriers will require action, including scholarships, mentorship programs and hiring practices focused on diversity. Public awareness campaigns and customized educational initiatives are needed, too, to build a more informed citizenry and prepared workforce. The study finds that a holistic, peoplecentered approach is critical to the successful rollout of clean hydrogen technologies. Major recommendations include curriculums that align with industry needs, equityoriented workforce policies, and international cooperation. Further studies could shed light on the longterm implications of corporate action in this area and present specific challenges encountered in the developing world, which will be needed for a fair transition to a hydrogen economy.