A new YouGov poll suggesting that 52% of people believe those in their 20s and 30s are lazier than older generations has met resistance from a surprising place: Gen Z workers at UK Power Networks.
According to an array of young workers at the country’s largest distribution network operator (DNO), UK Power Networks actively fosters a working culture where it’s “impossible to be lazy.”
UK Power Networks, which employs around 6,200 staff across London, the South East and the East of England, has more than 342 employees with 40-plus years of service. Alongside these industry veterans, a wave of young talent is joining through graduate schemes, internships and work experience – with some spots proving highly competitive.
Among these rising stars is 24-year-old major connections engineer Sasha Ritchie, one of two new recruits who saw off competition from more than 4,400 other university leavers. She helps to deliver large-scale high-voltage connections and has been involved in projects that encourage the adoption of greener technologies.
Sasha commented, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone my age who’s happy ‘doing nothing’. I think at UK Power Networks especially it’s hard to be lazy, there’s such a strong culture of giving your best and trying to develop your skills. There’s a lot of pride taken in being better than you were a week ago, and sharing what you’ve learnt with other people, and it’s a brilliant culture to join.
“I think the Gen Z members of the workforce prove any stereotype wrong by being so excited to be here and getting involved with everything we can. We’re all always thrilled to talk about everything we’ve been doing and chat about the projects we’re involved in. Every chance I get to talk to somebody my age, everyone is always so excited to share what they’ve learnt and the projects they’ve been involved in.”
UK Power Networks has also highlighted how its newest generation of power workers is already bringing innovative ideas to the table. Graduate innovation engineer, 22-year-old Naiya Hirji, is working on projects designed to make the power grid more efficient and sustainable, including helping factories cut their carbon emissions.
Naiya noted, “The perception of laziness may stem from the younger generation’s tendency to use ‘shortcuts’. However, these shortcuts often involve leveraging AI, coding, and other technical tools to enhance efficiency and improve task performance. This is not a negative trait; rather, it’s a testament to their innovative approach.
“Our workforce comprises multiple generations, each with unique experiences and varying degrees of familiarity with technology. Gen Z’s embrace of modern tools and techniques is also a crucial step forward.”
Meanwhile, 21-year-old trainee health and safety advisor, Eniola Hassan, is at the frontline of keeping everyone safe, offering occupational health and safety advice both internally and to the public.
Eniola said, “I think it’s impossible to be lazy in this job, I do not believe that the narrative surrounding Gen Z being lazy is at all correct or fair, I think this stems from things being done differently to traditional methods due to technological advances and practices that Gen Z use to their advantage.
“Since being at UK Power Networks I have yet to meet someone similar in age to me who is not eager to get involved in any projects or tasks which will further develop their skills and experiences, then share what we have learnt with each other as well as key takeaways. This is a testament to the company’s approach which encourages every one of us to be the best we can, essentially making it impossible to be lazy – especially in my role within Safety which is at the forefront.”
Another young recruit, 20-year-old apprentice linesperson Adam Dean, has his sights set on working with overhead cables. He believes some stereotypes arise from a vocal minority but doesn’t let that diminish his own determination.
Adam concluded, “Stereotypes are based on a select few who are making a bigger name for themselves, compared to those who like to get the job done. I feel like this leads to many thinking that just because someone in Gen Z wants to get the job done and go home doesn’t mean they are also lazy.
“For me, I have, and will continue, to show a willing to help out where I can during any job I’m on and learning as much as I can so I can make sure I’m a greater use out on site allowing for the job to be completed in a safe manner and so I can do more so the days moves a bit smoother and quicker. This is also the same for many of my peers on the apprenticeship.”
