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
- 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.