By Carlos Roa, VoLo Foundation

Job opportunities in the renewable energy sector continue to expand globally. The 2025 edition of Renewable Energy and Jobs, produced by the International Renewable Energy Agency in collaboration with the International Labor Organization, estimates the sector supports at least 16.6 million jobs worldwide. The figure underscores the industry’s role as a driver of economic and labor growth. 

In this context, engineer Emilio Buitrago took a career turn in 2010, entering the field of wind energy. Sixteen years later, he describes himself as an enthusiastic advocate for the opportunities the sector offers and shares his experience to encourage other professionals to explore careers in renewable energy. 

What led you to explore this new career field?

Curiosity, a desire to learn, adaptability and a sense of purpose led me to pursue a career supporting alternative energy, modernizing power grids and managing large-scale infrastructure projects. 

Are there specific professional skills that helped you stand out in this field? 

Being bilingual is an essential and highly valued asset. The renewable energy industry is global. In my experience, speaking both English and Spanish allowed me to meet with clients, negotiate contracts and communicate requirements to teams in Spain, facilitating projects in Wyoming, Ohio and Pennsylvania. The ability to connect cultures and markets is incredibly valuable. 

Besides engineering, what other professions are in demand in this industry? 

Opportunities exist not only for engineers but also for environmental policy lawyers, financial analysts, scientists and researchers, sales and marketing specialists, and international business development managers. Technical roles such as electricians, welders and maintenance personnel are also in high demand. 

What would you say to those interested in entering the field but lacking experience? 

Many employers offer training programs, as was the case when I moved from telecommunications to renewable energy. One of the most in-demand jobs in the U.S. is wind turbine technician, responsible for maintaining wind turbines. You do not need to be an engineer, as many companies train their staff directly. 

It is also crucial to stay up to date. The industry is constantly evolving, and knowing the latest trends and technologies is always an advantage for entering and advancing professionally. 

Employment growth in the sector has been steady. Do you think this trend will continue? 

Absolutely. The energy transition is accelerating, and net-zero targets are no longer abstract. At the same time, technologies such as smart grids, energy storage, advanced controls, clean hydrogen and AI-driven demand growth are reshaping the energy industry. 

Any final advice for those considering these career opportunities? 

My main advice is simple: network. Connections open doors. Introducing yourself, having conversations and participating in events can make a difference. Alongside that, apply basic principles: continuous learning, adaptability, aligning skills with meaningful impact and keeping a future-focused perspective.

Carlos Roa is senior press and PR director for VoLo Foundation. VoLo Foundation is a financial supporter of The Invading Sea. This piece was originally published at https://volofoundation.org/news/renewable-energy-jobs-continue-to-grow-worldwide/. Banner photo: Wind turbines and solar panels in the California desert (iStock image).

Sign up for The Invading Sea newsletter by visiting here. To support The Invading Sea, click here to make a donation. If you are interested in submitting an opinion piece to The Invading Sea, email Editor Nathan Crabbe. 

Tags: clean energy jobsclean energy transitionEmilio Buitragoenergy industryEngineeringrenewable energyVoLo Foundationwind turbines