Reviewing emerging competence demands of the power and energy industries
Changes in the operational environment are bringing new skill needs to the energy sector: energy transition, rapid technological development, geopolitical changes, and security issues are transforming the field. Universities offering energy courses also need to adapt to challenges such as demographic shifts, increasingly diverse learning needs, and limited resources.
For several years, the FITech network has offered studies in energy engineering for adult learners and degree students. The program was designed for adult learners, but degree students have also benefited from the opportunity to take courses at universities other than their home institution. However, systematic collaboration across the network in planning courses for degree students has not been carried out. FITech universities have recognised the need to strengthen collaboration in developing and implementing advanced courses to respond to the evolving skill needs of the field in transition, and to enhance the graduates’ successful entry into the labour market.
The project addresses the development priorities of university education, to align with the changing competencedemands of the energy sector
In the Developing university education to meet the needs of the energy sector project (Sähkö- ja energia-alan osaamistarpeet ja yliopistokoulutuksen kehittämiskohteet, SEOYK), FITech universities will examine whether the current university education in electrical and energy engineering meets the needs of the companies of the sector and the challenges of energy transition. The assessment will be conducted by examining key development areas in degree programs and continuous learning offerings. The project will serve as a preliminary study for a larger development project.
In the long term, FITech universities aim to optimise teaching resources by sharing responsibility for offering advanced studies in the energy field. They also seek to strengthen the profiling of universities through collaborative curriculum development, innovative teaching practices, and closer engagement with industry.
The joint SEOYK project of FITech universities is coordinated by the University of Oulu
Aalto University, LUT University, Tampere University, University of Eastern Finland, University of Jyväskylä, University of Oulu, University of Turku, University of Vaasa, and Åbo Akademi are participating in the project. The University of Oulu coordinates the project and produces the final report. The other participating FITech universities are committed to contributing to the review by supporting the information gathering process.
The project is funded by the Association for Electrical Technology and Energy Efficiency (STEK). The project will be carried out between January and August 2026.
Read more about the project
Contact information
Jenni Ylä-Mella, jenni.yla-mella(at)oulu.fi
Eva Pongracz, eva.pongracz(at)oulu.fi
Johanna Luomala, johanna.luomala(at)fitech.io
Funding
“STEK – The Association for Electrical Technology and Energy Efficiency. STEK promotes the responsible use of electricity and energy-efficient solutions in Finland. We support education, innovation, and public awareness to advance sustainable electrical engineering.”
