Professor John Underhill has been appointed to a prominent role with a national body dedicated to preparing the nation's workforce for the energy transition.

The University’s Interdisciplinary Director for Energy Transition has been appointed independent Chair of the National Energy Skills Accelerator (NESA), which has reached its one-year anniversary.

NESA is a not-for-profit organisation created to support the changing needs of energy sector employers and the workforce as they respond to energy transition opportunities.  It provides a single point of contact for the industry to access a wide range of training and skills development programmes and R&D capabilities in its partner institutions.

Based in Aberdeen, it is a collaborative initiative between the University of Aberdeen, RGU, and North East Scotland College, supported by key partners Skills Development Scotland and Energy Transition Zone Ltd.

Professor Underhill’s role as chair begins from 1 July, and he will help steer NESA through the next year its activity, which includes the expansion of its skills partnerships and engagement with companies and industry stakeholders to provide access to the critical training and skills required to support the UK’s net zero ambitions.

In addition to Professor Underhill’s appointment, Liz Rattray, the University’s Director of Research and Innovation, will continue in her role as a NESA board member.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Underhill said: 
“I’m delighted to be appointed as NESA’s independent Chair, as we aim to drive skills development as part of the net zero agenda.  I’m looking forward to working with everyone on the NESA team on our shared ambition to equip employers and the workforce with the knowledge they need to respond to the opportunities presented by the energy transition.”