Estonia’s energy sector is undergoing rapid transformation. Renewable energy, smart grids, energy storage and electrification are shaping a new era – but it is people who will define this future. The question is: where will these future-makers come from?

At the Inspiration Day, we will discuss:
– where Estonia’s energy sector is heading over the next 10–15 years
– what kind of specialists the sector will need
– how teachers can consciously guide and inspire young people

We will hear Elektrilevi’s strategic perspective, a personal experience story from a Rakett69 alumnus, and engage in a panel discussion on what kind of next-generation talent is critically important for Estonia.

The practical part of the day will give teachers the opportunity to reflect on their own experience together with physics education advocate Ingrid Rõigas, and to personally experience engineering thinking through a Goldberg machine challenge and a drone football tournament.

This day is designed for teachers who want to understand their role in shaping Estonia’s energy future.

PROGRAMME
09:30 – 10:00 Arrival and energy boost
10:00 – 10:30 The Future of Estonian Energy – Where Are We Heading?
Rudolf Penu, Member of the Management Board, Elektrilevi
– Development of grid infrastructure
– The role of renewable energy
– What specialists will be needed in the next 10–15 years

10:30 – 11:00 A Young Perspective: How Is a Future-Maker Shaped?
Rakett69 alumnus
– What influenced my choices?
– The role of teachers and noticing potential
– How schools can ignite interest in engineering
11:00 – 12:00 Panel Discussion
What Is Really Happening in Estonian Energy? What Kind of Talent Do We Need?
– Shortage of engineers and technical specialists
– The role of mathematics and physics
– Skills vs knowledge
– How to spark interest already in lower secondary school
12:00 – 12:30 Lunch
12:30 – 13:00 Estonian energy production from an environmental and nature conservation perspective. What is the future outlook for oil shale (and other energy-related natural resources)? Do environmental organisations in Estonia have a comprehensive position?
13:00 – 13:30 Coffee Talk with a Teacher – Ingrid Rõigas
– How can we ensure that young people are aware of developments outside formal education?
– Practical examples and experience stories
13:30 – 14:30 Goldberg Machine Competition
A hands-on engineering challenge developing:
– systems thinking
– teamwork
– creativity
– problem-solving skills
14:30 – 15:30 Drone Football Tournament for Teachers
15:30 – 16:00 Summary and Key Takeaways. Announcement of next year’s Inspiration Day date.

Registration open until 10 March at 17:00 via Fienta.

Additional information:
Darja Saar
CEO, Energy Discovery Centre
darja.saar@energiakeskus.ee