By Robin Schawe, Integrated Energy Vice President & Global Workforce Solutions Leader, KellyOCG
At our most recent Talent Leadership in Action (TLIA) event in Houston, I sat down with energy industry leaders from procurement, human resources, and talent acquisition. One of the most discussed topics was the aging workforce in the integrated energy sector — and the lack of a ready pipeline to replace it.
The graying of the energy workforce isn’t a future problem; it’s here now and happening faster than anyone wants to admit. It’s called the “Great Crew Change,” and it’s reshaping the energy industry.
According to Utility Dive, more than 50% of the U.S. oil and gas workforce is eligible to retire within the next decade . That means within 10 years — or less — we’re facing the loss of institutional knowledge, experience, and critical technical expertise. And too few younger workers are stepping up to take their place.
In Houston, energy leaders expressed frustration with the short-term fix that’s become all too familiar: rehiring retirees as high-cost contractors because organizations haven’t built the internal talent pipelines to replace them. Collectively, TLIA event attendees are tired of paying top dollar to bring back the same people they didn’t adequately plan to replace.
Let’s talk about the next generation. While energy companies are investing in early-career recruitment, Gen Z and younger millennials are leaving almost as quickly as they arrive. Why? Because this generation is different. They’re not necessarily here for the corner office. They want:
When they don’t find those things, they will walk. And this isn’t just a talent issue; it’s a compliance and financial risk, too. Unfilled roles delay projects, inconsistent training increases safety hazards, and turnover drives up operational costs.
The good news? This is a solvable problem. But it requires urgency and a strategic shift in how we think about workforce planning. A smart workforce solutions partner can help energy organizations turn this challenge into an opportunity through:
KellyOCG also puts a premium on honest conversations with your workforce. No empty promises — just communicating real, actionable strategies that drive progress and create positive outcomes for your employees.
High-performance teams don’t just materialize. They’re built. Today’s workforce wants more than a paycheck. They want to feel valued, enjoy opportunities for growth, and know their work matters. If you’re not listening to your people — especially Gen Z — you’re going to lose them. But if you listen, you can build something powerful. A resilient, future-focused workforce that can drive your business for decades to come.
What I heard at TLIA was determination. Energy leaders are ready to confront this challenge head-on. But only companies who act now, and act strategically, will be successful. Time is up. The “Great Crew Change” is here. Is your organization ready to evolve your workforce and drive sustainable growth? Contact KellyOCG today to learn how our industry-leading workforce solutions can help you build, retain, and future-proof your teams for lasting success.