Career and Technical Education: A Key Partner in Preparing Tomorrow’s Weatherization Workforce

Are you struggling to find enough workers for weatherization projects? Do you have a long-term solution for workforce development? The Clean Energy Center at Penn College is currently piloting a comprehensive workforce development program designed to equip high school students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the growing field of residential energy efficiency. By attending this session, participants will learn about the program's innovative and comprehensive approach to workforce development, which includes: Curricular Integration - embedding weatherization concepts, practical hands-on skills, and building performance certifications into existing career and technical education (CTE) programs across Pennsylvania. Industry Partnerships - fostering strong collaborations between schools and weatherization employers/contractors. Work-Based Learning - incentivizing employers to hire students for on-the-job training through wage reimbursement.
The pilot program aims to create a pipeline of qualified, diverse workers for the weatherization industry while addressing the critical need for energy-efficient homes and buildings. The program is currently expanding across PA, so during this presentation we will discuss the initial implementation, challenges faced, and early indications of success. It will also explore the potential long-term outcomes and sustainability.