If you work in energy, heavy industry, construction, engineering, or policy, or you’re trying to understand where credible long term work will come from in the UK, this episode matters. Carbon capture often gets talked about in abstract terms, but behind it are real projects, real jobs, and real decisions being made right now that will shape industrial careers for decades.

In this episode, I’m joined by Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, to talk about what carbon capture actually looks like on the ground: how the industry is being built, where the projects are, what skills are needed, and why timing matters for people considering their next move.

We discuss how carbon capture links decarbonisation with job protection, why the UK is well positioned to lead if it moves quickly enough, and what this means for graduates, mid career professionals, and those transitioning from oil and gas, construction, or heavy industry.

Key takeaways

⚙️ Carbon capture is no longer theoretical
Multiple UK projects have reached final investment decision, with more than 100 in the pipeline. This is now an execution challenge, not a technology debate.
🧭 Skills transfer is central not optional
Subsurface, drilling, pipelines, construction, operations, project management, and regulation skills all carry across. Large-scale retraining isn’t the barrier many people assume it is.
🏗️ Timing and policy certainty affect careers
Delays don’t just slow projects they risk losing experienced people overseas. Aligning project timelines with workforce transitions is critical.

Three actionable takeaways

🔍 Map yourself to the value chain
Identify whether your skills fit capture, transport, storage, construction, or programme delivery then target companies active in that specific segment.
📍 Follow projects, not headlines
Look at cluster locations, confirmed projects, and developer pipelines rather than general “net zero” announcements when planning career moves.
🧠 Stay close to the industry conversation
Attend CCUS webinars, industry briefings, and technical events to understand where work will materialise and when.