How E.ON’s Enterprise Advisor scheme is helping shape the workforce of tomorrow

At E.ON, we're committed to supporting career development at every stage, whether someone is starting out as an apprentice or looking to grow and adapt their own personal development.

Through initiatives like our E.ON Enterprise Advisor programme, we work closely with schools and local communities to provide real-world insights into the world of work, helping to bridge the gap between education and employment. By sharing our expertise, we aim to equip people with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.

Matt Grisedale, Senior People Champion, is also an Enterprise Advisor and has given us an insight into his role and what inspires him to help others.

What motivated you to become an Enterprise Advisor, and how does this role align with your position as Senior People Champion at E.ON?

I am fortunate enough to have had the experience of some really great managers in my time. This support has helped me get to where I am today as a Senior People Champion and has provided me with the capacity to give back. I first learned about Enterprise Advisors following a conversation with a colleague Bal Atwal, and with having young kids myself, the opportunity really spoke to me.  I wanted to make sure I was supporting local schools and get children into the best position to be ready for whatever comes next – whether that’s university, apprenticeships or the world of work.

Can you share specific examples of initiatives or projects you've implemented with schools to enhance students' understanding of careers in the energy sector?

I have showcased what we do at E.ON with both the schools I work with, attending careers fairs to talk more about our teams and our roles. I am also supporting one of my schools to set up some specific work experience days. Essentially, these will be some short sharp sessions that will provide the Year 9 students with a view of actual corporate jobs,  This will include some work with our New Energy Academy to look at how we get energy into customers’ homes and what roles in that team look like. It will also provide some real-life chances to try managing a mini project and a session around roles in a wellbeing space within a company like E.ON.

How does E.ON's Enterprise Advisor programme contribute to developing green skills among students, and why is this important for the future workforce?

One of the biggest things I have noticed in my time in the schools is that the students aren’t quite sure what E.ON does. One of them told me all about how they loved doing the electrician course at school and were really enjoyed wiring, connecting and looking at energy management and green tech - they then proceeded to ask me what E.ON do because they had never heard of us. This sadly wasn’t a one off and other students had interest in green solutions but had no idea who we were. The students are already way more engaged than I ever was! We just need to promote that more and more in the wider community and get the next generation to focus on harnessing that passion.

What feedback have you received from students about the impact of the Enterprise Advisor programme on career education?

The general feedback has always been great. Students always appreciate having the ability to see and talk about real life careers. They really value different stories and journeys and understanding that one size does not fit all. I think young people are so much more aware of the world around them than I was at their age – they are all so passionate about making a change.

Do you have any general career advice for others you’d like to share?

Don’t be afraid to move ‘sideways’ as sometimes, it’s really worth it.  Listen to your gut. If your gut says you can do a role, then go for it! Don’t be afraid of rejection too, as I went for a role three times before I got it and in another role I was third place in the interviews – it still remains that one ‘sideways’ move changed my entire outlook.

Supporting the journey at E.ON

As a business, we recognise the value of engaging with the workforce of today and tomorrow. Through our partnerships with schools and career initiatives, we are not only helping individuals make informed choices but also shaping the future of the energy sector. The demand for green skills and innovative thinking has never been greater, and by working together, we can inspire more people to explore careers that drive sustainability and progress.

National Careers Week is a reminder that learning and development are lifelong journeys, and we're proud to play a part in supporting those journeys every step of the way.