For National Careers Week 2026 Energy UK is showcasing some of its own team members and how they have built careers in energy. Sarah Marsh, Events and Training Executive at Energy UK, explains her journey into energy and why working directly with industry members to develop their knowledge is so rewarding.
Tell us about your current role and what excites you about it
I’m currently working as an Events and Training Executive, where I primarily lead Energy UK’s training programme.
What I really enjoy about my role is the opportunity to grow while also making a positive impact. It’s rewarding to see the difference our training can make and to know I’ve played a part in that. I especially love the collaborative side of the job; building relationships, sharing ideas, and working closely with others to create exciting outcomes. No two days are ever the same, which keeps things fresh and interesting, and I’m constantly learning, adapting, and developing along the way.
How long have you worked in the energy industry and how did you get into the sector?
I previously worked as a hairdresser for over 17 years in Australia and during that time I began studying psychological science, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in 2020. I held a couple of different roles across the aged care and disability sectors before moving to London in mid-2024.
I have been working in the energy industry for 15 months having been approached by a recruiter and despite having limited prior knowledge of the sector, I was immediately intrigued by the idea of contributing to such an ever-changing field.
Since joining, I’ve been able to learn quickly, develop new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the industry. It’s been an exciting journey so far, and I’m motivated by the variety and impact of the work I do.
What attracted you into the energy sector?
My interest in the sector developed as I learnt more about how energy is created, traded and delivered to the consumer. I enjoy being part of a field that affects all of our daily lives while also contributing to shaping a more sustainable future.
I am often inspired by my colleagues, the projects they work on and the contributions of our members. The sector is constantly changing, and those changes have a real impact on all of us, whether or not we are aware of it.
I enjoy being part of a field that affects all of our daily lives while also contributing to shaping a more sustainable future.
What is one thing you don’t think people know about working in energy?
I think there are many things that people don’t know about working in energy. It is a complex and diverse industry with so many different facets. So many people play important roles to keep our power on, often with little visibility from outside the sector. There is so much collaboration that I was unaware of and it’s exciting to know that I have just scratched the surface with so much more to learn.
What comes to mind as the highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my energy career has been contributing to the learning and development of many people involved in the sector. I enjoy the collaborative side of bringing together different people and teams and facilitating events where people share ideas and contribute to the growth of a more sustainable future.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I want to say that the best career advice is something like ‘find something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life’; however, I started my working life in a career that I loved, and learnt that it can change over time. Since I have moved away from my previous career, I have enjoyed exploring new sectors, including those I wouldn’t have previously considered. I am grateful for the continued learning and development, and the experiences that I have been exposed to.
Energy UK will continue to shine a light on the varied careers seen across the energy industry and how we are working to attract and build a skilled, diverse and motivated energy workforce. You can find more information and examples of successful apprentices via our Jobs In Energy resource, which demonstrates the benefits of working in the sector.
We also publish case study collections demonstrating how Energy UK members are building the workforce for our future energy system and delivering opportunities for apprenticeships to drive the energy transition. If you have a case study showcasing innovative work within the sector, please get in touch via press@energy-uk.org.uk.
Interested in starting a career in energy?
For the country to reach Net Zero, the energy industry will need all the people it can get – from all kinds of backgrounds, with a diverse range of skills.
A job in energy could mean anything from a nuclear engineering apprenticeship, to working in customer service for a retail energy company, or a role at a tech startup – so you might not know where to start.
The Young Energy Professionals (YEP) Forum has created this guide to help you find the right route into a job in energy.
