Survey Reveals Public's Lack of Awareness on Energy Careers During Careers in Energy Week

Understanding the Disconnect: Energy Careers Awareness

During the recently celebrated Careers in Energy Week, a fascinating survey by the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD) unveiled a pressing issue in the energy sector. Despite the crucial role of the energy workforce in maintaining the U.S. economy, a significant number of Americans lack knowledge about the various career opportunities available in this vital industry.

The survey, conducted by The Harris Poll between October 9 and 14, 2025, involved 2,070 adults aged 18 and older. It revealed a paradox: while 88% of respondents acknowledged the energy workforce's importance in sustaining the economy, 69% admitted to being unclear about the specific jobs that exist within the sector. According to Missy Henriksen, executive director of CEWD, this disconnect is alarming and could hinder the attraction of new talent essential for the industry's evolution.

The Demand for Energy Jobs

Projected growth in the energy sector is expected to create millions of jobs over the next decade. This surge is driven by increasing energy demands, expanding infrastructure, and rapid technological advancements. As such, understanding potential careers in this industry takes on paramount significance, not just for job seekers, but for the future of energy itself.

The survey found that a whopping 91% of Americans value long-term job stability, underscoring a general desire for secure and sustainable employment options. Despite this, barriers to understanding energy careers persist, as one-third of respondents disclosed that they had never even met someone working in energy. This lack of visibility contributes to the broader issue of talent acquisition in the sector.

Interestingly, 66% of those surveyed indicated they would consider pursuing or recommending a career in energy. However, only 17% knew how to go about doing so. This significant gap in awareness poses a challenge for CEWD and similar organizations aiming to foster interest in energy careers among younger generations.

Bridging the Gap and Future Prospects

Bridging this knowledge gap is crucial for attracting and preparing the next wave of professionals. Educational initiatives and outreach programs that inform the public – especially students and young adults – about the available opportunities could be vital in shaping the future of the energy workforce. Workshops, internships, and mentorship programs could serve as effective pathways to increase public awareness and interest.

For the energy industry to thrive in the coming years, it is essential to not only highlight existing careers but also promote the diversity of roles available, ranging from engineering and technician positions to management and administrative functions.

Conclusion

As we move further into an era of energy evolution, the awareness surrounding careers within the sector is crucial not just for existing energy companies but for the sustainability of the economy as a whole. The findings from this survey serve as a call to action: increased visibility and education regarding energy career paths are necessary for a robust and knowledgeable workforce that is ready to meet future energy challenges.

To discover further survey insights and strategies on improving awareness in energy careers, individuals are encouraged to visit CEWD's news page.