Capitol Hill Resolution Aims to Boost Careers in Energy
Amid a growing demand for skilled workers in the energy sector, a new resolution on Capitol Hill seeks to highlight the significance of careers in this field. The resolution designates October 19-23 as Careers in Energy Week, a move that aligns with projections from the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), which anticipates the need for up to 30 million energy jobs in the next decade.
EEI President and CEO Drew Maloney emphasized the importance of the electric grid, stating, “The electric grid is the most important machine in America and it takes a skilled, dedicated workforce to keep it running.” He highlighted the tireless efforts of the industry’s workforce in maintaining reliable electricity essential for the economy and daily life.
U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) recently introduced House Resolution 1633, backed by six other cosponsors including U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA), to foster partnerships between the energy industry and educational institutions. These collaborations aim to spotlight career paths that enhance both local economies and the broader energy sector.
“The U.S. is a global leader when it comes to energy production,” Thompson said. He noted that the bipartisan resolution not only recognizes the contributions of energy workers but also highlights the rewarding career opportunities available to students and adult learners.
The resolution underscores the diverse career opportunities within the energy industry, spanning from traditional fossil fuel roles to emerging fields in renewable energy, research, engineering, and technology development. It also highlights the effectiveness of registered apprenticeships in cultivating a highly skilled workforce through a combination of practical training and technical education.
In addition to promoting career paths, the resolution advocates for energy education and awareness. It stresses the importance of vocational training, registered apprenticeships, and STEM skills in driving future energy innovations.
The resolution has garnered support from various organizations, including the Center for Energy Workforce Development and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. This week, EEI is celebrating Careers in Energy Week by acknowledging the contributions of energy workers and introducing future generations to careers in the industry.
EEI’s recent report, Economic contribution of the electric power industry in the United States, 2025, highlights that electric companies provide high-wage job opportunities without the need for a four-year degree. According to the report, the average employee earns about $184,000 in wages and benefits, significantly higher than the U.S. average of $95,000.
The report further states that the U.S. electric power industry’s economic contribution in 2025 is expected to support 6.9 million workers, with $647 billion in wages and benefits, and generate $1.4 trillion in GDP. EEI emphasizes the importance of training the next generation of skilled workers to meet the nation’s expanding energy needs.
In conjunction with Careers in Energy Week, EEI is launching a new episode of the Electric Perspectives podcast. The episode features lineworkers Nick Goodman and Bryan Woodford, who discuss their experiences in the industry and the technological advancements aiding their work.
Goodman shared the adaptive nature of lineworkers, stating, “One of the phrases that a lot of linemen use is ‘adapt and overcome.’ They’re going to take whatever the challenge is, and they’re going to figure out a way to overcome those challenges.” Woodford highlighted the role of smart meters and automated grid equipment in efficiently identifying and resolving outages, noting, “Our smart meters can let us know about an outage before we ever get the call.”
Original Story at dailyenergyinsider.com