Local businesses working on innovative net zero schemes are being urged to join a programme to inspire young people into new careers.

The Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority are launching an 'Experiences of the Workplace' programme linked to Net Zero, to give students first-hand experience of working at companies thriving in the sector.

Businesses are being called on to host groups of students, invite them to their workplaces and set a mini project or task based on net zero to give them an interactive, engaging experience that helps develop their skills and attitudes, preparing them for the world of work.

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This is a great chance for local companies to help develop the workforce of the future, giving young people the expertise and confidence that they will need to succeed in a Net Zero career and help our businesses and sector grow. The programme will run between March 2024 and July 2024. During January to March, representatives will be working with businesses and providers to plan experience days bespoke to each business.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Tees Valley is at the forefront of the net zero, clean energy revolution. Multibillion-pound investment at sites such as Teesworks is driving forward innovation and development in offshore, hydrogen, carbon capture, sustainable fuels and more – supported by our brilliant local businesses.

“But it doesn’t stop there. We’ve got groundbreaking innovation in the cleaner, safer and healthier industries of the future at firms of all sizes across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool and we need their help to inform young people across the region of the fantastic Net Zero careers opportunities available right on their doorstep."

Tees Valley Business Board Chair Siobhan McArdle said: “This is an amazing opportunity for our young people to develop their understanding of the Net Zero space and the green career opportunities within it.

“This programme offers an opportunity for business to engage with and help secure the future talent pipeline. You can help equip young people now with the practical skills and experiences that will make them the front-running candidates to fill key roles within  your  team in the future.”

For more information or to apply, visit teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/green-careers