Oakes Energy launches 'Future Leaders Programme' with MBA sponsorship to upskill workforce

The programme will see two of the company’s rising stars, Curtis Simpson and Finlay Lowes, fully sponsored to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Durham University.

Simpson, a project engineer specializing in building services, and Lowes, a design engineer in the renewables department, will receive comprehensive support and mentorship from Oakes Energy throughout their studies. The programme is designed to foster leadership and management skills, ensuring the company is well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the future.

This initiative is part of Oakes Energy’s strategic response to the ongoing skills shortage in the engineering and renewable energy sectors. By investing in advanced education and nurturing in-house talent, the company aims to secure sustainable leadership and retain top-tier professionals within its ranks.

The 'Future Leaders Programme' complements Oakes Energy’s existing focus on early career development through its degree apprenticeship programme. Launched in 2023, the apprenticeship scheme recruits at least one local school leaver each year, offering them hands-on experience across core departments, including building services engineering, ground source energy, photovoltaic systems, and service operations.

These apprenticeships are bolstered by Oakes Energy’s involvement in the STEM Ambassador programme, which promotes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers among young people. Through a rotational system, apprentices gain a comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations, preparing them for long-term careers in engineering and renewable energy.

Nik Smith, Director of Oakes Energy, emphasised the importance of the initiative in addressing industry challenges. “The MBA will not only provide Curtis and Finlay with essential leadership skills, but it will also prepare them to take on higher-level management roles in the future,” Smith stated. “In an industry facing a shortage of skilled professionals, we’re very proud to be supporting our current workforce in the best way to ensure we meet both our short-term and long-term goals.”

As part of the PHS Group, Oakes Energy continues to position itself as a trailblazer in workforce development. By investing in programmes like the 'Future Leaders Programme' and its degree apprenticeships, the company is building a robust pipeline of skilled professionals who are ready to lead the transition toward sustainable energy solutions.