Digging deeper : coal workers’ perceptions of reskilling towards future career paths in the green energy transition at Mae Moh, Thailand

Title: Digging deeper : coal workers’ perceptions of reskilling towards future career paths in the green energy transition at Mae Moh, Thailand

Author: Tiana Voogt

Year: 2025

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Post-development,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Khathaleeya Liamdee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to understand coal workers’ perceptions towards reskilling for the GET. Rather than assuming resistance or acceptance, this study seeks to understand the nuanced reality of workers' perspectives - their concerns about job quality and stability, their readiness for retraining, their trust (or lack thereof) in government and industry promises, and their visions for their own futures. By focusing on mid‑career, medium‑skilled workers, this research targets a group that are most exposed to transition risks, with significant remaining working years, yet substantial investment in their current occupations. This research examines those most directly impacted by policy decisions regarding the closing down of fossil fuel infrastructure.