A new workforce training program targeting young adults 18 years and older, was created to help ensure that all New Yorkers, including those in Disadvantaged Communities (DACs), are included in NYS’s clean energy future. The program is led by Liz Oliveto, WPWDB Youth Program Director in partnership with Training Provider Soulful Synergy to prepare 18 participants to enter the growing field of clean construction with confidence, competence, and purpose.
Funded by a New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) Office of Just Energy Transition (OJET) Renewable Energy Training Initiative (RETI) Grant, the program recognizes that climate change does not impact all communities equally. RETI funding provides:
- The up-skilling or re-skilling of workers transitioning from fossil fuel to clean energy positions;
- The up-skilling or re-skilling of residential workers in weatherization, building performance, and retrofitting, including fees for required industry-recognized credentials; and
- Wraparound services during training, including but not limited to, childcare, transportation, housing, food, mental health services, and substance use treatment or services.
The Westchester, NY program, which launched in May and wraps up on July 11th, combines foundational construction certifications with specialized green building credentials and real-world hands-on experience. The initiative is designed not only for individuals new to the field but also for those seeking to reskill or upskill, providing a rare, flexible approach to clean energy workforce development.
Oliveto said: “Too often, workforce programs are linear and limited. This one is different. We’re giving participants not just a starting point, but a foundation and options for where they can go next, whether that’s further specialization in green building or jumping directly into a job. That kind of flexibility is rare.”…