The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the allocation of $24 million, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, to 21 projects across 20 states.
These projects aim to enhance clean energy workforce training programs, particularly focusing on jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, within union training programs, community colleges, and trade schools.
Expansion of the Industrial Training and Assessment Centers Network
Over 40% of the funding will directly support union job training. The selected projects will expand DOE’s Industrial Training and Assessment Centers (ITAC) network, formerly known as Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs).
This network trains energy-efficiency workers to assist small- and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) in reducing their carbon emissions and energy costs.
Overseen by DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Supply Chains, these ITACs are instrumental in removing barriers to decarbonization in the manufacturing sector and advancing the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of a clean energy economy.
Since President Biden assumed office, over $415 billion in private sector investments have been announced in the clean energy and electric vehicle supply chain, creating increased demand for a skilled clean energy workforce.
Focus on Disadvantaged Communities and Minority-Serving Institutions
In line with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims for 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments to reach disadvantaged communities, an estimated 50% of the funding will be directed towards organizations serving these communities.
This will help reduce energy burdens and enhance access to well-paying jobs for individuals facing employment barriers.
The selections also include seven institutions recognized for serving a high percentage of students from minority groups (Minority-Serving Institutions or MSIs).
Enhancing Technical Assistance and Workforce Training
For over four decades, the ITAC program has provided more than 21,000 assessments at SMMs, which make up over 90% of the nation’s manufacturing entities.
These new ITACs will extend the former IAC model to SMMs in more states and communities, training over 4,000 students, apprentices, and incumbent manufacturing workers for high-quality careers that don’t necessarily require a four-year college degree.
The ITACs announced today will offer technical assistance to SMMs and provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and union apprentices, while identifying ways to lower energy costs.
The programs will also offer training and upskilling opportunities for current manufacturing and building energy workers.
Participants will graduate from these programs equipped for in-demand roles such as electricians, HVAC professionals, and advanced manufacturing technicians in growing clean energy sectors like batteries and solar manufacturing.
Award Management and Future Funding Opportunities
These awards will be managed by DOE’s Partnership Intermediary, ENERGYWERX, which assists applicants with limited experience in DOE funding opportunities.
Selection for award negotiations does not guarantee funding; negotiations between DOE, ENERGYWERX, and applicants will take place before any funding is issued.
The ITAC Program is overseen by the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC). You can learn more and subscribe to the MESC newsletter for updates on future funding opportunities.