Energizing the Workforce: A Clean Energy Academy

Showcasing successful workforce programs that target the groups we mentioned in April’s edition of Energizing the Workforce is one of the most important items we can do as an organization. Not only does this highlight the work being done, but it minimizes the chance of reinventing the wheel. The SJVCEO strives to build upon the successes of other programs that bring positive outcomes to vulnerable populations that are often left behind. How can we serve these communities with workforce resources? Are there any existing programs we can refer people in to? Is there a specific model that works best? This is where we want to highlight the Willdan Clean Energy Academy, a workforce development program based out of New York that is “empowering trainees to learn the skills necessary to uncover energy savings opportunities.”

Funded by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and working with Con Edison, Willdan’s Clean Energy Academy “provides a pathway for priority populations to step into clean energy job opportunities with nationally recognized certifications.” This program and the efforts that are associated with it, have designated “priority groups” that they are striving to serve through the Clean Energy Academy. From veterans to previously incarcerated individuals, to those residing in Environmental Justice zones (like DACs for us California folk)- this program is addressing the needs of the industry as a whole but also targeting the groups that need more opportunities for employment.

Now, what does this employment entail? It is not just a temporary job; it goes beyond that and offers opportunities for careers and growth within the sector. “The Small Commercial Energy Efficiency Analyst training developed by Willdan included 60-hours of classroom instruction and in-the-field, hands-on experiential learning over the course of two week” (Willdan Case Study). In addition to the interpersonal class environment “efforts made by instructors to relate to the trainees, and group learning approaches helped foster deeper engagement with the curriculum.” It is important for us to highlight the way in which these trainings were constructed. Creating a collaborative environment that not only enhances the group dynamic but also individual performance, sets up these individuals for future success. Based on research explained in other editions of ETW, the prioritized groups for this specific program require a tailored approach for hiring or enrolling in program opportunities like this one. If you are an army veteran returning from a three year tour or if you were just released after being incarcerated, there are additional barriers to employment and by constructing the program like the one mentioned above, these barriers begin to break down.

So what happens after the training is executed? With nationally recognized certifications, the opportunities are fruitful! The most common gap that energy industry leaders explain when it comes to hiring is the lack of technical skills in potential hires. From HVAC to lighting to energy benchmarking- the auditing skills learned within the weeks of the Clean Energy Academy not only fills that gap that employer consistently address, but also prepares them for a variety of career paths. “Roughly 90% of students who have graduated have been placed into part-time or full-time opportunities,” is a HUGE success! The work that is being done in New York with this Clean Energy Academy program is astounding and we hope to see more programs like this in the future offer career pathways to underserved communities.