Workforce Development

The Environmental Collaboratory is developing an in-depth assessment of how climate transition workforce opportunities, current worker training programs, and universities can align to increase the capacities of the green economy in local communities.

Key climate transition workforce opportunities in Philadelphia have been identified and the groundwork for strategic partnerships has been developed. . Through these recommendations, a potential operational mechanism for partnerships among 4-year universities and worker training programs will be determined.

What is Climate Transition Workforce Development?

Climate transition workforce development prepares individuals for employment in sectors shifting towards sustainability and reduced carbon emissions. This entails providing training in skills relevant to industries such as renewable energy and climate-resistant infrastructure.

Why Climate Transition Workforce Development?

Climate transition workforce opportunities do not require a college degree.
Climate transition workforce opportunities are a chance to advance diversity in light of Supreme Court decisions.
National policies are requiring increased climate transition workforce development capacity.
Drexel University is dedicated to civic engagement and supporting local economic development.

Project Goals

Identify Climate Transition Workforce Opportunities in Philadelphia
Evaluate the job market within Philadelphia and how it correlates with the city's climate action plan.
Develop Strategic Partnerships
Explore the role of universities to compliment current worker training programs and not replace them.
Increase Accessibility to Climate Transition Workforce Opportunities
Establish alternative education pathways to support students of color and students from economically challenged circumstances to become trained in green skills.

Identifying Climate Transition Workforce Opportunities in Philadelphia

Climate Transition Sectors

Climate Transition Sectors in Philadelphia

Energy Transition
Green Restoration & Resiliency
Water Management
Climate Preparation & Education

Sector-Specific Job Opportunity Examples: Energy Transition

PV Solar Tech
HVAC Tech
Weatherization Tech
Geothermal Energy Tech

Developing Strategic Partnerships

Phased Consultations Conducted

Workforce Development Organizations

Youth Build Philadelphia Charter School
Energy Coordinating Agency
University City District
Philadelphia Works
Russell Hicks (CEO Ebony Suns Enterprises, LLC)

Drexel Faculty

Dr. Steve Weber, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Curriculum and Education
Goodwin College of Professional Studies
Joanne Ferroni, Assistant Vice Provost, Anchor Partnerships
Rachel Viddy, Interim Executive Director, Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships
Allen Riddick, Executive Director, Supplier Inclusion
Dr. Christine Fiori, Department Head, Engineering Leadership and Society

Government Entities

PA Department of Labor and Industry
PA Department of Environmental Protection
Philadelphia Office of Sustainability
Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce

Private Sector Organizations

Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission
Philly Chamber of Commerce
Green Living Plan Coalition
Green Building United
Water Resources Association of the Delaware River
American Water

Overall, the goal is to enable partners to expand their workforce development programming in the growing sectors of climate-transition job opportunities.

Consultation Insights

Program Structure

Apprenticeship
Youth Education and Engagement
Customized Certificates
Summer Bridge Program
Train-the-Trainer Program
Continuing Education Certificates

Drexel's Role

Ongoing Research Assessment
Stakeholder Convenings

All stakeholders expressed that Drexel has a very valuable and needed role in the workforce development space.