Networking, AI and Engineering Careers | Ryan Menzies on Energy Sector Heroes

If you're starting your career in energy, looking for your next opportunity, or wondering how to stand out in a competitive market, this episode is for you.

I sat down with Ryan Menzies, Founder and Director of Apollo, to discuss what engineering consultancies are really looking for, why attitude often matters more than experience, and how graduates and early-career professionals can build long-term careers in an industry that's going through significant change.

We also talk about networking, career development, AI, the value of curiosity, and why the current slowdown shouldn't stop people from believing in the future of the energy sector.

• ⚡ Ryan's journey from aerospace engineering into the energy industry.
• 👷 Why curiosity and attitude often matter more than a perfect CV.
• 🤝 How networking can create opportunities that never appear on job boards.
• 🏢 The differences between starting your career with a large organisation versus an SME.
• 📈 What Apollo looks for when recruiting graduates.
• 🤖 How AI and automation are changing engineering rather than replacing engineers.
• 🌍 Why transferable skills are becoming increasingly valuable across oil & gas, hydrogen, offshore wind and other emerging energy sectors.
• 📊 The challenges facing today's graduates—and why Ryan remains positive about the industry's future.

✅ Attitude creates opportunities. Technical skills matter, but curiosity, willingness to learn and helping others often leave the strongest impression.

✅ Build your network early. Meeting people, attending industry events and getting involved with professional institutions can open doors long before vacancies are advertised.

✅ Don't let today's market define your future. The energy industry continues to evolve, and the skills you develop now can transfer across multiple sectors throughout your career.

🔹 Attend one industry event or professional institution meeting this month and introduce yourself to at least three new people.

🔹 Review your CV and LinkedIn profile to highlight examples of curiosity, initiative and problem-solving—not just technical achievements.

🔹 Before your next interview, prepare two or three examples that demonstrate how you've gone beyond what's expected, whether through university projects, work experience or volunteering.

Thanks for listening to Energy Sector Heroes.

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