At Clean Energy Columbus (CEC), we are not just about changing energy systems; we are also about helping our community grow. Our programs create jobs, help people improve their lives, and contribute to a greener future. Let’s see how our efforts make a difference.
How CEC Helps the Workforce
CEC’s focus on renewable energy has created many local jobs. For example, our Atlanta Solar Farms project has given work to over 300 people from Ohio. This commitment to the workforce shows how we support local employment and help the state’s economy.
We have a special team called the Clean Energy Workforce Development Committee. This group meets every two months to plan and make sure there are enough skilled workers for Ohio’s growing clean energy industry and is the driving force behind the implementation of the EMPOWERED! Program.
The EMPOWERED! Program
The EMPOWERED! Program is at the heart of our workforce development. This 12-week program gives participants important certifications like NCCER, OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, and Environmental Specialist training. These certifications prepare people for construction and clean energy jobs, giving them the skills they need to succeed.
One of the best parts of EMPOWERED! is its focus on inclusivity and diversity. We aim to provide opportunities for everyone, especially those from underrepresented communities. This approach not only helps reduce workforce disparities but also brings a variety of talents and perspectives to the clean energy industry.
Rondell Barrett’s Story
Rondell Barrett’s journey shows how powerful our programs can be. Rondell first received housing help from Star House but wanted more from life and needed to figure out how to get it.
In 2023, EMPOWERED! Staff held recruitment events to introduce the program. These events shared details about how to enroll, program length, and what participants could learn and achieve in 12 weeks.
Rondell attended one of these events and decided to join the program. Through EMPOWERED!, he found a sense of belonging and a clear career path in the clean energy sector.
Now, Rondell works full-time at Connect Housing Blocks, earning $18.00 per hour. His journey from uncertainty to a successful career shows how our programs can change lives.
Conclusion
At Clean Energy Columbus, we aim to promote clean energy and create meaningful job opportunities. Our workforce development programs are helping to build a sustainable and inclusive future, one job at a time.
Join us in our mission to drive clean energy forward while supporting individuals and communities. Together, we can create a brighter, greener future for Ohio.