As Europe’s wind energy sector continues to expand, WindEurope has joined the European Alliance for Apprenticeships (EAfA) to strengthen career pathways and grow the talent pool across the industry. With a new sectoral commitment, the organization aims to raise awareness of technical career opportunities and expand apprenticeship programs throughout the European wind energy sector.

Today, around 400,000 people are employed in wind energy across Europe—a number expected to rise to 600,000 by 2030. Finding and training skilled professionals to fill these roles, particularly in vocational and technical positions, has become a major challenge.

In response, WindEurope’s new commitment outlines concrete steps to enhance apprenticeship training. These include supporting the development of modern, relevant training content; improving the image of vocational careers; and launching outreach campaigns aimed at young people, women, and underrepresented groups.

Together, these efforts are designed to make apprenticeships more visible, attractive, and better aligned with the needs of the energy transition—helping vocational education become a first-choice pathway into the wind energy workforce.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Roxana Minzatu, Executive Vice President of the European Commission for Social Rights, Skills, Quality Employment, and Readiness, emphasized: "Europe’s competitiveness depends on its people, and right now, the biggest shortages are in the sectors we need the most. That’s why apprenticeships must become more attractive, visible, and valued. We’ve set ambitious goals: by 2028, 40% of vocational students should be enrolled in STEM programs, and women should represent at least 25%—up from just 16% today. We’re also working toward a diploma with clear, recognized career pathways across the EU. And as we prepare the next EU budget, we must ensure vocational training receives adequate investment."

The Commission is backing these words with action. Starting next year, it will open 100 placements for vocational students as part of its prestigious Blue Book Traineeship Programme, traditionally reserved for university graduates.

The wind industry is already leading by example. In the Netherlands, the creation of the “Apprenticeship Pact” has brought together government, industry, and education to secure training spots for wind energy students. That pact is now part of the formal tender criteria for offshore wind projects in the country.

What began as a national initiative is now inspiring others. In Denmark, for example, a new wind electrician program has been launched under the EU-funded T-shore project. Building on these successes, WindEurope is working with the Dutch national wind association to create a scalable blueprint for apprenticeships across Europe.

By joining the EAfA, WindEurope members also gain access to a wide range of resources through the alliance’s knowledge-sharing portal and activity hub. This includes expert-led webinars, practical tools, guides, fact sheets, featured articles, and opportunities for cross-sector collaboration—all aimed at boosting the quality and reach of apprenticeships throughout the EU.