New York is taking a significant step toward building a sustainable future with a $4 million investment in clean energy workforce development. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul and approved by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees, this funding targets the creation of training and job opportunities for over 750 New Yorkers in the clean energy sector.
Governor Hochul remarked, “We’re investing in New Yorkers and the clean energy jobs of the future.” She highlighted that this funding not only opens doors to lucrative careers but also boosts one of the state’s rapidly expanding industries.
Funding Allocation
The financial support will be distributed among seven organizations and educational institutions, each playing a pivotal role in nurturing a skilled workforce:
Bronx Green Job Center and the Knowledge House – $1,400,000
The Bronx Green Job Center, led by Fordham University, along with the Knowledge House, will leverage the funds to initiate training programs at a modern regional hub dedicated to clean energy workforce development.
Welder Underground – $740,000
Located in Brooklyn, Welder Underground will broaden access to advanced welding and fabrication training, providing participants with the necessary technical skills and career readiness assistance, focusing on job placement and long-term employment.
Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 1822 – $635,000
Operating in Massena, LiUNA Local 1822 will enhance pre-apprenticeship pathways within the construction trades, offering foundational training and support services to prepare participants for union careers.
Workers Justice Project – $465,000
Based in Brooklyn, the Workers Justice Project will provide training for emerging careers in clean mobility, emphasizing safety and technical competencies essential in the green transportation sector.
New York City District Council of Carpenters – $260,000
This Manhattan-based organization will upgrade advanced training for apprentices in specialized construction fields, focusing on energy-efficient and clean technology projects.
City College of New York – $300,000
Located in Manhattan, City College of New York will launch a pilot program to prepare participants for careers in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, combining technical instruction with industry-recognized certification pathways.
Building Skills NY – $200,000
This not-for-profit organization will expand construction career training across New York City neighborhoods, integrating green building practices and job readiness support.
Support and Commitment
NYPA Chairman John R. Koelmel stated, “The $4 million in NYPA funding support for these workforce training initiatives will help provide New Yorkers with the skills needed to excel in the state’s clean energy economy.”
The initiative aligns with Governor Hochul’s vision to equip more New Yorkers with skills for high-growth jobs. In 2022, the Governor reimagined the state’s workforce development strategy, establishing the Office of Strategic Workforce Development at Empire State Development. This office supports industry-driven workforce development programs to ensure the state’s workforce is prepared for future opportunities.
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight commented, “Workforce development is how we turn New York’s energy goals into real careers for New Yorkers.”
The NYPA’s commitment to clean energy workforce training is backed by up to $25 million annually as per the 2023-24 Enacted State Budget. This initiative is part of a broader effort to connect workers to job opportunities in the clean energy economy, with a focus on traditionally underrepresented communities.
With this latest round of funding, NYPA has now allocated over $45 million to support clean energy training programs, assisting thousands of trainees and over 30 workforce training organizations across the state.
For more details on the Power Authority’s support for clean energy training, visit their workforce development webpage.
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Original Story at www.einpresswire.com