JTF H2 Train and Learn Hub

The H2 Train and Learn Hub is dedicated to preparing students and professionals in the Groningen and Emmen regions for roles in the emerging hydrogen economy and green molecules sector. By focusing on the entire education spectrum—from primary through post-initial education—the hub aims to develop a highly skilled workforce essential for the energy and resource transition in the region, the Netherlands, and Europe.

Key Objectives

1. Strengthen Educational Offerings and Curricula (WP1): Enhance and expand educational programs and curricula related to hydrogen and green molecules across all educational levels, creating continuous learning pathways from vocational training to higher education.

2. Applied and Fundamental Knowledge Development (WP2): Support research initiatives that contribute to the knowledge base of the hydrogen economy, encouraging both applied and fundamental research efforts.

3. Facilitate Learning and Work Trajectories (WP3): Establish practical learning and work experiences such as traineeships, internships, and dual education programs in collaboration with regional businesses, fostering hands-on learning.

4. Implement Challenge-Based Learning (WP4): Introduce innovative teaching methods, such as challenge-based learning, where students tackle real-world problems in the hydrogen sector, enhancing their practical skills and interdisciplinary collaboration.

5. Promote Lifelong Learning (WP5): Encourage continuous professional development and retraining opportunities in the hydrogen sector, ensuring that the workforce remains adaptable and up-to-date with industry needs.

6. Strengthen Collaboration with researchers from vocational institutions, university of Applied Sciences and and university (WP6): Foster partnerships between educational institutions and research hubs, integrating professors, lecturers, and practitioners to create a robust academic and training ecosystem.

7. Coordination, Dissemination, and Public Engagement (WP7): Manage and coordinate the hub’s activities, disseminate results, and engage the public through events and communications to raise awareness of hydrogen technologies.

Regional Impact

The H2 Train & Learn Hub strengthens the Groningen and Emmen regions as leading centers for education in hydrogen and green molecules. By enhancing collaboration between educational institutions and industry, it boosts innovation, supports investment, and fosters a skilled workforce ready for the hydrogen economy. The hub raises regional awareness, promotes a sense of pride in the energy transition, and attracts talent from within and beyond, ensuring the area's prominence in Europe’s hydrogen landscape.

Expected Outcomes

Building on the successful Waterstof Werkt! initiative, the H2 Train and Learn Hub is set to significantly increase the number of qualified professionals in the hydrogen sector. The program aims to train and retrain around 2,000 individuals, meeting the growing demand for skilled workers and supporting the region’s transition to a sustainable energy future. By aligning educational programs with regional investments and industry needs, the hub plays a crucial role in securing the economic and environmental future of the region.

Partners

Knowledge Institutes:
University of Groningen (RUG), Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Alfa-college, Noorderpoort College, New Energy Coalition (NEC), Drenthe College (DC), NHL Stenden, University of Applied Sciences (NHLS)

Companies:
Gasunie, Shell, RWE, Holthausen, Demcon, Stork, GasTerra, EBN, NAM, Rabobank, Campus Groningen