UK Fusion Skills Council appoints new co-chairs from leading Oxon firms

The UK Fusion Skills Council, a collaboration between the government-led UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and leading fusion companies, has named two new co-chairs to support growth in the sector.

Organisations represented on the council include Tokamak Energy and First Light Fusion, both pioneers in the fusion space and both based in Oxfordshire.

Jane Shannon, director of people and engagement at Tokamak Energy, is one of the new co-chairs.

“We need to empower the next generation now in our quest to deliver fusion as a secure supply of clean and affordable energy to meet rising demand and address climate change,” she said.

“Our mission is to highlight the exciting opportunities the fusion industry has to offer, plus deepen and widen the talent pool so we are in the strongest position possible for this exciting new delivery phase of fusion technology.”

The council is looking to support the fusion sector’s growing workforce with 2,200 people over the next five years.

In 2023, it produced a collaborative sector strategy for skills, informing and prompting a comprehensive skills programme led by UKAEA.

This programme aims to increase the number of apprentices and graduates in the sector, ensure that universities provide more postgraduate and doctorate courses, and encourage international partners to offer post-doctoral training opportunities.

The council’s other new co-chair is Ryan Ramsey, chief operations officer at First Light Fusion.

“I’m deeply proud to be joining the UK Fusion Skills Council on behalf of First Light Fusion,” he said.

“It’s a vitally important collaboration on meeting the future skills requirements in fusion.

“Fusion is a multi-generational challenge, and the next generation of scientists, engineers and technicians will be an essential part in delivering commercial fusion energy for the benefit of all.

“Working in fusion is about unlocking a new, clean energy source and decarbonising our planet.

“I hope more of our best talent will join us on that journey to change the world.”

Nick Walkden, head of fusion skills at UKAEA, added: “We’re delighted to have Jane and Ryan in position alongside the diverse membership of the UK Fusion Skills Council.

“The challenge and opportunity presented by skills growth for fusion is one that we all share, and we are dedicated to ensuring that the benefits of this important programme are felt throughout our sector.

“The UK Fusion Skills Council, chaired by Jane and Ryan, will be a core element that will enable us to do that, both now and for the future.”