Skills for a sustainable energy future

The energy transition requires more than innovation and sustainability. It needs well-trained professionals who will drive it forward. That’s why Axpo is committed to diverse vocational training, with over 400 apprentices across 18 different professions trained throughout Switzerland – from technical and digital roles to commercial careers.

As the only energy provider in Switzerland offering apprenticeships in all four national languages and regions, Axpo ensures a solid foundation for career entry. Through targeted vocational training programs, Axpo secures the skilled workforce of tomorrow – for the company and the entire energy industry.

Sustainable energy requires sustainable development – also in people strategy 

Axpo’s approach to sustainability is built on four key dimensions: Planet, People, Principles, Progress. While Planet represents climate protection and innovation, People focus on those who make the energy transition possible – from experienced professionals to the next generation of talent.

For Axpo, sustainability means taking responsibility across generations – environmentally, economically, and socially. That’s why investing in people is a core part of our sustainability strategy – from training experienced specialists to preparing young talents for the future.

The world of work is changing rapidly, and Axpo is actively shaping this transformation. As a leading energy company, we are committed to playing a key role in driving the energy transition. To succeed tomorrow, we must invest in people today. With apprentices, trainees, and interns across all our locations – 426 of them in Switzerland – Axpo is securing Switzerland’s most valuable resource: its young talent.

The energy transition cannot happen without highly skilled professionals, equal opportunities, and targeted talent development. Young talent at Axpo is not only the workforce of tomorrow – they are the innovation drivers and pioneers of the future. 

Long-term perspectives for young talent

Axpo launched its ambitious training initiative in 2023, and it has been growing ever since. “We are constantly expanding and improving our programs,” says Thomas Crameri, Head of Vocational Training at Axpo. Currently, the company is training 462 apprentices and 55 trainees and interns, ensuring not only its own future but also strengthening the entire energy industry. Those who start their careers at Axpo become part of a team that drives real change – with a clear vision for the future and the energy to shape it.

To secure a steady pipeline of talent, Axpo complements its vocational training initiative with traineeships and internships. These programs ensure a continuous pool of young professionals, creating strong career pathways – whether through direct employment, further studies, or specialization within the company.

New vocational trainings for a dynamic industry 

Axpo continuously adapts its vocational training programs to meet the evolving needs of the energy transition. “In recent years, we have introduced new training programs in ICT and solar energy,” says Thomas Crameri, Head of Vocational Training at Axpo. This ensures that young professionals are fully prepared for the challenges of the future.

Well-trained specialists are not only essential for the energy transition but also for the competitiveness of Switzerland as a business location and for long-term economic success. However, Axpo’s commitment goes beyond vocational training: Energy means responsibility – for the environment and for society. By actively supporting young talent and creating career opportunities in future-oriented fields, Axpo is helping to combat the skilled labor shortage in the energy sector and contributing to economic stability.

Encouraging more women in technical professions

Diversity is a key driver of long-term success. Axpo aims to increase the proportion of women in technical professions and at all hierarchy levels by 2030 while ensuring equal opportunities regardless of background or gender. “In Switzerland, the proportion of women in technical apprenticeships has remained low over the past decade,” says Thomas Crameri. “Despite numerous initiatives, the figure has hardly changed. Axpo is currently in line with the national average of just under ten percent.” 

Vocational Training is the Foundation of a Sustainable Future

Young talent is the driving force behind innovation and progress – not only in the energy sector but across industries. Axpo’s approach is proving successful: 80 percent of apprentices receive a permanent position after completing their program. By investing in vocational training, Axpo is not only securing its own skilled workforce but is also making a long-term contribution to society – because those who invest in talent today shape a more sustainable tomorrow.

How Axpo is investing in the workforce of tomorrow is highlighted in the latest Sustainability Report.