A group of New York City energy efficiency companies, backed by Con Edison, has formed an employer-led coalition to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the green economy and accelerate the development of a green workforce.
The NYC Energy Efficiency Workforce Coalition, created by the New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC) and The Green Launchpad, seeks to support the growth of a skilled workforce to handle the increasing demand for green jobs, particularly in clean energy and energy efficiency fields.
The coalition aims to bridge the gap between job seekers and available opportunities by connecting training providers and registered apprenticeship programs, according to Green Workforce Connect.
Faced with a shortage of trained workers, like skilled electricians and welders, the coalition plans to develop training programs to meet the current and future needs of the green economy, particularly in areas like building decarbonization and electrification.
“This Coalition is about creating the connective tissue between New York City’s clean energy goals and the people who will power them,” said Gregory J. Morris, CEO of the New York City Employment and Training Coalition. “By aligning contractors, workforce providers, and training institutions around a common vision, we’re building a durable ecosystem that equips New Yorkers, especially those from historically excluded communities, with the skills and support to access meaningful, long-term careers. It’s a strategy for inclusive economic development, one that drives decarbonization, strengthens local businesses, and builds wealth in the communities most impacted by climate and economic inequity.”
The Coalition will initially focus on three high-impact occupational tracks: energy auditing and analysis, project management, and technician roles, such as HVAC and installation technicians. These tracks were selected based on direct input from employers who identified them as both high-demand and foundational to decarbonization efforts.
Recognizing that job titles and responsibilities can vary dramatically between large implementation firms and smaller contractors, the Coalition’s working groups will develop customized guides that reflect the nuances of the NYC energy efficiency ecosystem. This includes mapping samples of non-linear career progression, such as technicians moving into program management, and clarifying transferable skills between roles.
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