The Welsh Labour Conference this year will be a pivotal moment for the construction industry, as Minister for Skills Jack Sargeant takes the stage to discuss the intersection of jobs, green growth, and the future of manufacturing in Wales. With a background in advanced manufacturing, Sargeant brings a unique perspective to the table, emphasizing that the path to competing for the next generation of skilled manufacturing jobs lies in renewable technologies.
Sargeant’s message is clear: Wales must embrace the future of energy solutions, not cling to the outdated methods of the past. He argues that former mining communities in Wales do not want a return to open-cast mines, and that meeting the region’s energy needs through renewable technologies is both necessary and inevitable. The development of the next generation of renewable green technology and the integration of AI are not distant possibilities but imminent realities. Wales, he asserts, must choose to build these technologies and reap the benefits, or risk falling behind.
The Minister highlights the transformative impact of new technologies on transportation, home heating, and energy generation, as well as the rapid growth of AI. He advocates for a “just transition” to these new technologies, ensuring that communities across Wales are equipped with the skills needed to engage with and benefit from these advancements. This includes providing opportunities for young people to train as engineers and specialists, as well as offering retraining programs for those already in the workforce.
Sargeant underscores the importance of social partnership in achieving this transition. He points to the Welsh Labour government’s commitment to working with trade unions and investing in upskilling union representatives. This collaborative approach, he believes, is essential for ensuring a just transition that leaves no worker behind.
The Welsh Labour government, along with its counterpart in London, is investing heavily in infrastructure and renewable energy. Sargeant contrasts this with the Reform Party’s stance, which he criticizes for advocating open-cast mines. He emphasizes the need for Wales to build its own renewable energy products rather than relying on imports from volatile regions. The port at Port Talbot, for instance, is set to become a hub for a floating wind turbine project, potentially creating over 5,000 jobs and positioning Wales as a global leader in this technology.
Sargeant also highlights the Welsh Government’s investment in housing and energy-efficient technologies. The Flexible Skills Programme, which he recently launched, offers employers up to 50% of the accredited training costs, up to a maximum of £50,000 per application. This program aims to support Welsh businesses in upskilling their staff, boosting retention, and adapting to an ever-changing economic landscape.
The Minister’s vision for Wales is one where the future is bright, driven by a commitment to apprenticeships and the development of future-ready skills. He argues that Welsh workers, with their proven capabilities in advanced manufacturing, are well-positioned to build the next generation of renewable technology products. The challenge, he says, is to ensure that these opportunities are seized and that workers are supported through the transition.
Sargeant’s speech at the Welsh Labour Conference is expected to set out a clear path for how Wales can develop the skills needed to capitalize on emerging technologies. His background in manufacturing gives him a unique vantage point, allowing him to advocate for a future where Wales leads in renewable technologies and green construction, rather than being left behind by outdated practices.