Oil and gas industry urged to keep younger workers motivated

He is urging organisations to adapt modern technology and methods to attract, train and retain young people to ensure the workforce of tomorrow also develops into a safe and competent one.

Jenkins, a published author on the topic of millennials, will deliver his message during his keynote presentation at the annual OPITO Safety & Competence Conference (OSCC 2017) on November 8 in Kuala Lumpur.

OSCC 2017 is the only global event focused on safety and competency in the oil and gas industry. Theconference attracts delegates and exhibitors from all over the world including the UK, US, Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific.

Jenkins speech will set the tone under this year’s theme ‘New Generation, New Thinking’. He will uncover the culture of those born between 1982 and 1997, what influences and attracts them to stay with companies, as well as revealing examples of global organisations successfully building a stronger future.

Jenkins said: “A war on talent has begun in the global workplace and the oil and gas industry is at the threshold. The millennial generation makes up the lion’s share of personnel across companies with 66 per cent of them expecting to leave their current employer by the end of 2020. This makes attraction and retention amongst the greatest challenges for businesses today.

“Companies must not only battle against competitors to be the most appealing to this generation, but they must also give serious consideration as to how they engage with them, the technology young people use, and how this group views and equates success at work.

“My presentation at OSCC 2017 will drive this message home to delegates, reveal some of the latest working trends and provide a better understanding of who millennials are.”

OPITO interim chief executive officer John McDonald said: “The next generation has grown up in a hi-tech, fast paced, interconnected world and as an industry, we need to look at how we can further embrace these methods and gadgetry advancements while maintaining standards.

“We look forward to Ryan sharing his wisdom and strategic experiences with us as we consider the ambitions of millennials as well as hearing from our other speakers and industry experts discussing new practices and standards during the event.”