Skills and Careers in the Solar PV Industry Development Workshop

Event: Skills and Careers in the Solar PV Industry Development Workshop
Date: Tuesday 21 April 2026 (day before the PVSAT conference commences)
Times: 10am to 4pm (approx.)
Venue: The Boiler House, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU
Registration fee: free to attend! (Help with travel costs available)

Solar photovoltaics has been identified as a key growth area in the UK Governments’ Clean Energy Jobs Plan. This SES Network Skills Development Workshop represents a fantastic opportunity for Early Career Researchers from UK universities considering careers in the solar PV industry to connect directly with voices from across the UK solar PV sector, who will share their perspectives and experience on the varied career trajectories available within solar PV.

As well as opportunities to meet and put questions to the speakers, the day will also feature two panel sessions with Q&A: Technical skills for future careers in Solar industry (with a focus on manufacturing) and Industry and government perspectives (with a focus on systems and policies).

Find out more about SES Network.

Speakers

James Blakesley, National Physical Laboratory
Tom Bradley, Decerna
Laura Brown, Northern Powergrid
Ellie Grimes, North-East Combined Authority
Natalie Mica, Natural Power
Debra Russell, Bluefield Services
Dima Sirbu, Powerroll Ltd

Who should attend: Early Career Researchers from UK universities wishing to engage with and be inspired by the those who have forged rewarding careers in the solar PV industry.

Venue: the Boiler House at Newcastle University (located in the middle of campus, between the Armstrong Building and the Student Union). The venue has step-free access and accessible toilets and rooms are equipped with infrared assisted hearing. Travel information is available here.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided during the day.

Registration deadline is 12pm BST on 14 April 2026.

Register to attend

Financial support available:

A limited number of travel bursaries (maximum £200) are available on a first-come-first-served basis to ECRs registered/employed at UK universities. Request a travel bursary application form during registration.
Those who may incur additional childcare costs in attending are encouraged to apply to the SES Network Childcare Fund.