Apprenticeships are becoming a game-changer for industries navigating the transition to Net Zero — a challenge that spans almost every sector. More than just a route into work, they’re shaping the next generation of leaders in sectors such as utilities, energy and infrastructure – industries that urgently need fresh talent and new skills.

According to National Grid, the UK energy sector alone will need to fill around 400,000 roles by 2050 to achieve Net Zero, with 260,000 of these being new positions. That’s a big challenge, but also an exciting opportunity. Apprenticeships are helping to bridge the gap, offering hands-on experience in everything from renewable energy systems to sustainable transport solutions. But what makes an apprenticeship programme truly stand out?

For Dalcour Maclaren, whose respected teams of land, environmental and geospatial experts work together to unlock the land consents and planning permissions needed by the utilities, energy and infrastructure sectors, it’s all about keeping it personal, making career pathways clear, and setting up apprentices for long-term success. The company recognises the challenges the industry faces in navigating the transition to Net Zero — and its focus on developing the right future talent will help achieve these goals.

Keeping it personal

Many young people applying for apprenticeships are going through their first formal recruitment process, which can feel daunting. Joanna Middleton, Head of Talent Acquisition at Dalcour Maclaren, believes making the experience human and engaging on a personal level from the outset is key to finding the right candidates – those who align with the company’s values and ambitions.

Jo Middleton, Izzy Small and Andrew Barker join Sangeeta Kandola to discuss the Dalcour Maclaren Apprenticeships programme.

“What’s important for us is that the process reflects the culture and our values, and that our candidates feel that. We try to ensure there’s a human element to our process and how people join us. Rather than host things virtually, we have a phone call; we invite people into our site, we hold an assessment day in person so they can feel what it’s like to be at DM, and learn more about our business from the people.”

Shining a light on new career paths

One of the biggest challenges in attracting talent to sustainable industries is awareness. Many young people are unaware of the wealth of career opportunities in the green energy transition.

The UK Government’s Green Jobs Taskforce emphasises the essential role of STEM, digital, and data skills, alongside project and change management, in achieving a successful Net Zero transition. It also highlights the importance of general skills, including leadership, management, and communication.

“We always hear about doctors and lawyers and the more obvious career pathways,” says Jo, “but I think the green energy transition and Net Zero represents a whole new world of careers which maybe young people are less familiar with.

“It’s really important that we market the apprenticeship correctly, and spread the word through our partners, associations and other avenues.”

Joanna Middleton, Head of Talent Acquisition at Dalcour Maclaren.

 

Investing in future leaders

Apprenticeships aren’t just about filling roles for the present; they’re an investment in developing the leaders of tomorrow. By equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and experience they need, apprenticeships help cultivate the talent and leadership that will drive future innovation, growth, and sustainability across industries. Managing Director Andrew Barker sees them as a crucial part of the company’s long-term success:

“There’s so much focus now on Net Zero, improving habitats and better connectivity. It’s creating so many opportunities within our industry, yet there is a massive skill shortage… We’ve got to be really focused on bringing in future talent in the form of apprentices, so that we’re feeding a pipeline of our future workforce,” he says.

Dalcour Maclaren’s Managing Director, Andrew Barker.

“Skills are changing as time goes on, so the apprenticeship schemes are a fantastic opportunity to start identifying and bringing in talent who have different skills, to complement those we already have within the business.”

A clear pathway to success

For Dalcour Maclaren apprentice Izzy Small, knowing there’s a structured path to career progression has been invaluable.

“I started off at university, like most people do, but there just weren’t that many contact hours, so I began to look for different options,” she explains. “Then I came across the apprenticeships at Dalcour Maclaren.

“I like that I can see a really clear pathway for a career… and what’s great is Dalcour Maclaren is such a young company. I look at people who are getting promoted so young, and to see that is really exciting. To be 20, looking for a future career, and knowing that I’ll be supported throughout the whole journey; it’s brilliant.”

Dalcour Maclaren apprentice, Izzy Small.

With a mix of on-the-job experience and academic learning (she spends one week a month at uni), Izzy is building a strong foundation for her career, all while being supported by a network of apprentices on a similar journey.

Dalcour Maclaren’s approach – emphasising human connection, career clarity and long-term investment – is proving that when done right, apprenticeships can benefit businesses, while empowering young people to build rewarding, impactful careers. What’s clear is that investing in apprenticeships isn’t just about the present – it’s about building a workforce ready to shape the future.

To find out more about our Apprenticeships, please see our Careers page.