In this special episode of Mind the Gap, guest host Jess Milligan is joined by Wing Commander Russell Barnes OBE and Sergeant Adam Clare from the Royal Air Force to discuss how the RAF is tackling the STEM skills gap through education, gaming, and digital engagement.

The conversation explores how the RAF’s STEM program is designed to inspire young people to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. From the use of Minecraft and esports to virtual learning programs and interactive resources, this episode delves into the innovative ways the RAF is making STEM accessible and engaging for the next generation.

In this episode of Mind the Gap, we dive into the world of gamified learning with the Skewb Climate development team. They’re the creative force behind tools that educate children about mental health, equip industries with innovative training, and inspire sustainable practices across sectors.

Please welcome... 

Alex Mcardell - Technical Artist 

Ben Fowler - Technical Lead 

Lewis Hill - Senior Developer 

Lloyd Hooson - Senior Developer 

Mikhail Malkin - Game Artist 

In this episode of Mind the Gap, we welcome two leaders from Cadent Gas who are shaping the future of accessibility, safety, and social impact through their work. Joining us are Gary Hawkins, Head of Streetworks and Reinstatement for London, and Phil Burrows, Head of Customer Vulnerability at Cadent Gas. Together, they bring decades of experience and a shared commitment to fostering inclusivity and resilience in the communities Cadent Gas serves.

Gary Hawkins shares his 18-year journey in the Streetworks industry, where he’s championing accessible design for individuals with mobility needs. With experience across public and private sectors, Gary discusses the vital importance of considering accessibility requirements in every aspect of street and road works to create safer, more inclusive public spaces.

Phil Burrows, with over 30 years at Cadent, leads the Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) team, overseeing over 130 projects and 274 “Centres for Warmth.” Phil sheds light on Cadent’s Force for Good strategy for fuel poverty relief and CO safety initiatives. Phil discusses his mission to make support services accessible to the most vulnerable, advocating for increased awareness among policymakers, local authorities, and communities.

Join us as Gary and Phil share their perspectives on bridging gaps in infrastructure and access, providing practical examples of how Cadent Gas is building a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the utilities industry’s growing skills gap by getting the opinions of the people who represent the future workforce: kids! 

We interviewed children between the ages of 7 and 15 to see if they’re learning about utilities in school and whether they even know what the industry is all about. 

The results? Eye-opening, insightful, and yes—often hilarious. Spoiler alert: it seems like we’ve got some work to do in making this sector relevant and exciting for the next generation.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! What can we as an industry do to better engage with young people and make the utilities sector more appealing? Connect with us on social media and let’s keep the conversation going.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/skewb-climate/ 

https://www.instagram.com/skewb_climate/

https://www.facebook.com/skewb.climate

https://www.tiktok.com/@skewb_climate?_t=8kQUEYcsR7I&_r=1

https://www.youtube.com/@SkewbClimate

https://x.com/skewb_climate?lang=en-GB

In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming the founders of Skewb Climate, Shashi and Indu Seshadri.

Shashi Seshadri, Co-Founder of Skewb Climate, is a driven individual with a wealth of experience in the UK Utilities sector. With a background in Electronic Engineering and an Accelerated Development Programme at the London Business School, Shashi's journey includes pivotal roles at Wipro Technologies and Enzen Global Limited. As the CEO of Enzen UK, he played a crucial role in business development and growth. 

In 2018, Shashi and Indu founded Skewb with a commitment to delivering sustained, resilient, and value-driven outcomes through digital change and transformation. Shashi's belief in creative solutions, collaboration, and networking forms the core of Skewb's approach.

Indu Seshadri, Co-Founder of Skewb Climate, is equally passionate about improving the Utilities sector. After completing her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Masters in Software Engineering, she joined Wipro as a Business Analyst and Software Developer. Indu played a key role in industry deregulation projects before taking a break to raise her two children with Shashi. In 2018, she re-entered the business world when she co-founded Skewb. Indu's dedication is reflected in Skewb's commitment to delivering transformative outcomes for clients through process and change transformation.

Skewb Climate, as a digital and agile entity, integrates customised digital product and service solutions into core operations. Shashi and Indu's hands-on approach, collaborative mindset, and commitment to positive impact make Skewb a driving force in the UK Energy and Water market. Join us in this episode as we delve into their inspiring journey and the innovative solutions they bring to the Utilities industry.

https://skewbclimate.co.uk/

https://skewb.co.uk/

Production support from Untold Creative

In this episode of Mind the Gap, we're joined by Steve Fraser, a veteran with over 20 years of experience in transforming infrastructure businesses. Currently overseeing the operations of five gas distribution networks at Cadent, Steve's accountability extends to maintaining system safety and managing the National Gas Emergency Number. 

With a background that includes being the Chief Operating Officer of United Utilities, a FTSE100 water company, Steve shares his journey from early utilities operations to his current pivotal role. Holding degrees in Management Studies and Engineering Management, along with an Advanced Management diploma from Harvard University, Steve provides unique insights. 

In this episode we explore his directorial stint at Bethell Group and his impact at United Utilities, where he led the global outsourcing division. Join us as we uncover the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned in the dynamic world of infrastructure management and gas distribution.

https://cadentgas.com/careers/life-at-cadent

https://skewbclimate.co.uk/ 

Production support from Untold Creative

Join us in this episode as we are thrilled to host Kate Lazenby, the Executive Director of The Pipeline Industries Guild. Kate's journey is marked by a deep commitment to the industry, having served as DC2 and Chair of the Midlands Branch before her current role.

Kate's corporate experience includes a pivotal role as an Account Lead for Costain Group, where she played a crucial part in supporting the power sector through data interpretation and reporting to management. Her career path extends to influential positions in Document and Information Management, contributing her expertise to renowned companies like AMEC, Skanska, Mowlem, and Siemens.

Tune in to gain insights into Kate Lazenby's experiences in the pipeline industry, her commitment to The Pipeline Industries Guild, and her contributions to fostering collaboration and building a skilled, sustainable workforce. Don't miss this conversation on Mind The Gap.

https://pipeguild.com/

https://skewbclimate.co.uk/ 

Production support from Untold Creative

In this episode of Mind The Gap, we're joined by Dan Holland, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the Utilities, FM, and Defence sectors in the UK. Dan's career has been defined by his commitment to "delivering more for less".

In 2019, he took on the challenge of leading a dynamic team at Network Plus, a smaller Manchester-based company. Under his guidance, the team quickly became known for their reliability, agility, and effectiveness, resulting in substantial growth.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dan is a strong advocate for workplace safety and career development. His involvement with the EU Skills Board underscores his commitment to enhancing workforce attraction, development, and retention strategies.

In this conversation, we explore Dan's motivations, strategies to bridge the skills gap in the Utilities industry, and the potential for transformative change. Join us for insights from an industry leader who has a wealth of experience and a passion for making a difference in the field. Don't miss it!

https://networkplus.co.uk/careers/

https://skewbclimate.co.uk/

Production support from Untold Creative

Welcome to Mind The Gap! 

Today, we're honoured to host Jon Butterworth MBE, a distinguished energy industry leader with over 40 years of experience. As CEO of National Gas Transmission and Metering, Jon played a pivotal role in its transition to an independent entity after divesting from National Grid. 

He oversees the UK's regulated National Transmission System, a 7,620km network connecting gas sources to distribution networks, serving millions. Jon manages the Gas System Operator function, aligning it with customer and stakeholder needs. He also leads the National Gas Metering division, managing around 7 million gas metre assets. 

Join us for insights into Jon's vision for the industry and the challenges it faces, including talent retention.

https://jobs.nationalgrid.com/national_gas

https://skewbclimate.co.uk/ 

Production support from Untold Creative

Welcome to Mind the Gap, the podcast on a mission to bridge the skills divide. 

Join us in thought-provoking conversations with industry leaders, experts, and change-makers who are reshaping industries and championing inclusivity. 

From utilities to technology, education to business, we explore strategies, workforce development, re-skilling, inclusive hiring, and diverse perspectives driving innovation.

Whether you're a student, a professional, or an organisation committed to diversity and inclusion, Mind the Gap is your go-to resource for navigating today's rapidly changing world. 

Tune in and embark on an empowering journey of exploration, education, and inspiration. Let's bridge the gap and unlock limitless potential together!