The Internship Guarantee Agreement for Wind Netherlands (Convenant Stageplaatsen Wind Nederland) will come into effect. This collaborative initiative between vocational education institutions (MBO) and the wind energy sector ensures that participating companies will provide ample internship opportunities for MBO students and commit to covering the necessary investment costs in the long term. By taking on this responsibility, the signatories aim to address the shortage of adequately trained professionals in the wind energy sector.
Jan Vos, chairman of NedZero, the wind energy industry association, emphasized the importance of this agreement, saying, “Personnel shortages are a challenge. The wind sector, together with MBO education, takes responsibility by guaranteeing internships. This is a milestone that deserves celebration.”
Increasing Demand for Technicians
The Dutch wind energy sector is experiencing rapid growth, expected to accelerate to a predicted 70 GW of installed capacity by 2050. As a result, the demand for well-trained technicians is rising annually, while the number of available trained professionals lags. To address this issue, the wind sector has been proactive in developing educational programs and training positions in collaboration with the government.
Industry and Vocational Schools Join Forces
With this agreement, the business sector and vocational education institutions are taking their collaboration to the next level. By signing the agreement, companies in the Dutch wind industry commit to bearing all necessary long-term investments to provide internships for technical MBO students. These companies will guarantee internship placements and continue working closely with vocational schools. The Dutch wind sector has had positive experiences involving MBO technical students early in practical education, challenging them to excel.
Ensuring Continued Relevance
Guaranteed internships allow students to gain practical experience in a dynamic industry under the guidance of experienced professionals, with the necessary investments covered by the sector. Direct investment in the next generation of MBO technicians helps the wind industry mitigate personnel shortages during the energy transition and ensures that technicians can continue to develop in a rapidly changing energy landscape.
