Opportunities and Skills for Success in the Hydrogen Industry -

The hydrogen industry is rich with professional opportunities in all different fields. On October 8, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, Plug hosted an informative webinar that explored career paths within this dynamic field. Nadia Alvarez, our Talent Acquisition Operations Manager, moderated a discussion featuring insights from panelists Meryl Mallery, Vice President of Engineering, and Tim Cortes, Chief Technology Officer. Their expertise has provided valuable guidance for people looking to enter or advance in the hydrogen field.

The full webinar is available on demand.

Various Career Opportunities

This sector offers a variety of job opportunities. Engineers and technicians, especially those with a background in the chemical, electrical, and mechanical sectors, are in high demand. However, the opportunities extend beyond technical roles. Business functions such as finance, legal, and human resources play an important role in supporting business operations and driving growth. Production and operations people make products and prepare them for shipment. Project management positions are important as the industry grows, while security and compliance professionals ensure compliance and raise high security standards. Additionally, as companies seek to expand their market reach, roles in sales, marketing and business development are becoming increasingly important.

Important Hydrogen Skills

To succeed in the field of hydrogen, professionals must cultivate a combination of skills. Key skills include problem-solving skills, curiosity, and a strong desire to innovate. People transitioning from traditional energy fields or those with aerospace or defense experience can leverage their existing knowledge while gaining new hydrogen-specific skills. Innovation in the hydrogen industry extends beyond the technical sector. For example, finance teams are developing new ways to raise capital and fund capital projects, while HR teams are implementing new strategies for talent acquisition and employee engagement.

Other key skills such as collaboration, effective communication, curiosity, and patience are equally important in this evolving field. Effective collaboration and communication across different functions helps bridge the gap between technical and non-technical teams, enabling the company to achieve its vision.

Employee Training Programs

The industry is investing in workforce development through partnerships with universities that focus on innovation and preparing future professionals. Many organizations, including Plug, offer internship and co-op programs that provide valuable experience for early career development. Mentoring initiatives also play an important role by pairing new employees with experienced leaders to encourage personal and professional growth.

Networking and Mentoring

Joining professional associations, attending conferences, and participating in job fairs provide valuable opportunities to network with industry professionals. Forward-thinking companies pair incoming employees with more engaged leaders to encourage personal and professional growth through support, encouragement, and knowledge transfer.

The rewards of working in the Hydrogen industry

This field offers many rewards. Seeing the tangible results of one's work in a thriving industry is incredibly satisfying. Whether it's a green hydrogen production system coming online, a new fuel cell product being launched at a customer site, or a new idea for an IT help desk, this pioneering spirit inspires pride and accomplishment. Knowing that human activity directly affects the environment and the decarbonization goals of many countries is very encouraging. Despite the daily challenges – or perhaps because of them – the hydrogen industry offers exciting and rewarding career paths, driving professionals to persevere as we help the world transition to a clean, sustainable energy future.