In this blog, we catch up with Imogen to reflect on how being on a Youth Insights Panel kickstarted her career.
She joined Northern Gas Networks’ Young Innovators Council in its very first year, in 2021. Since then she has gone on to join the business’ adult panel, she has studied engineering at university, and is now looking for her next steps in the renewable energy sector.
Thanks for coming back and sharing your updates with us, Imogen!
Meet Our Young Innovator – Imogen Stout, former member of the Young Innovators Council at NGN
Right now, I’m in my final year at Durham University, studying Electrical Engineering. As I look ahead to my next steps, I’m applying for graduate schemes in the utilities sector, with a particular passion for renewable energy and project management. But if I look back, I can clearly see how being part of a Youth Insights Panel shaped my journey.
Finding My Path
Joining the Young Innovators Council (YIC) during sixth form was a game-changer. It deepened my interest in the utilities sector and reinforced my desire to study engineering at university. It wasn’t just about learning from industry professionals—it was about realising that I could be part of shaping the future of renewable energy.
At a time when in-person opportunities were limited due to Covid restrictions, the panel provided a space where I could still gain relevant industry experience. That experience helped keep my passion for engineering alive and gave me a real insight into what a career in the field could look like.
Shaping My Future
The Young Innovators Council didn’t just give me insights into the industry—it actively influenced my career aspirations. Through the panel, I saw first-hand how young voices can impact key strategies on education, careers, and sustainability. I particularly valued how engaged Northern Gas Networks (NGN) was in listening to us and acting on our input.
Visiting the Hydrogen Home and contributing to discussions with the Decarbonised Gas Alliance was a defining moment for me. It was an eye-opener to the engineering challenges involved in transitioning the gas network to a hydrogen blend. It also confirmed that I wanted to build a career focused on renewable energy.
A Standout Moment
One of the most meaningful experiences was being involved in the Hydrogen Home project. It wasn’t just a behind-the-scenes look—we were actively part of the conversation, and our contributions were recognised. Seeing our work gain attention from BBC Look North and the Decarbonised Gas Alliance was an amazing moment.
[Image: The Young Innovators Council 2021 visit NGN’s Hydrogen Home]
Building Industry Connections
Through the panel, I made valuable connections that have already shaped my journey. My involvement led to an invitation to NGN’s Adult Stakeholder Panel, where I connected with even more industry professionals. This opened the door to a three-week work experience placement with NGN—an incredible opportunity.
During that placement, I spent a week shadowing the Capital Projects Team at Thorpe Park and two weeks with Network Control at Doxford Park. Those experiences helped me develop a deeper understanding of the sector and confirmed that I was on the right path. The kindness and support I received from NGN throughout my studies has been invaluable.
Why Youth Insights Panels Matter
Being part of a Youth Insights Panel can do more than just provide a platform for young voices—it can shape futures. It certainly helped to shape mine. From boosting confidence and developing key skills to making industry connections and confirming career aspirations, the experience was truly invaluable.
For any young person considering getting involved, I’d say go for it. You never know where it might lead!