Jane Shannon and Ryan Ramsey appointed with immediate effect
The UK Fusion Skills Council has appointed two co-chairs to help monitor and advise its leadership team.
Jane Shannon and Ryan Ramsey have been appointed with immediate effect to help the umbrella body boost the fusion energy sector and its workforce.
Shannon, also director of people and engagement at fusion power company Tokamak Energy—one of the organisations that make up the council—said: “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.”
Ramsey, chief operations officer at fusion research company First Light Fusion, which is also part of the council, added: “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.”
Council’s work
The UK Fusion Skills Council is also made up of 17 other commercial organisations and academic research organisations, as well as the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Tokamak Energy and First Light Fusion. It aims to help boost the fusion sector’s growing workforce with 2,200 extra workers over the next five years.
Last year it produced a collaborative sector strategy for skills, informing and prompting a comprehensive skills programme led by UKAEA on behalf of the fusion sector.
Nick Walkden, head of fusion skills at UKAEA, said: “We are 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.”