Workforce
6/12/25 @ 10:30AM
Pontalba Room
The Basics
What does This mean?
Workforce development in this context refers to training, upskilling, and supporting a labor force that is prepared to implement building decarbonization strategies, such as energy efficiency upgrades, electrification, and clean energy installations in homes, schools, and commercial buildings. This includes a broad spectrum of occupations: HVAC technicians, electricians, energy auditors, retrofit installers, building operators, and maintenance professionals.
This means preparing workers, especially those from historically marginalized or underrepresented communities, for the jobs of the clean energy future. It involves investing in education, technical training, apprenticeships, and career pathways that align with the technologies and practices needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector.
It also means transforming how and where buildings are updated: retrofitting affordable housing, weatherizing older homes, installing heat pumps, and ensuring ventilation systems are both efficient and healthy.
Why Does This Matter?
Buildings are a major source of climate pollution. In the U.S., residential and commercial buildings account for roughly 30-40% of energy use and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
Decarbonizing buildings creates jobs. From electricians to energy auditors, this work requires a skilled workforce to plan, install, and maintain decarb systems.
The clean energy economy must include everyone. Historically, communities of color, low-income individuals, and justice-involved populations have been left out of high-quality, well-paying careers in construction and energy. This transition is a chance to change that.
It’s about more than emissions. Done right, building decarbonization also reduces energy bills, improves indoor air quality, and strengthens community resilience.
How can this advance equitable building decarbonization?
Prioritizing underserved communities. Target training and hiring for workers from frontline communities and direct investments into buildings that serve those most impacted by climate, health, and economic inequities.
Creating access to high-road careers. Partner with unions, community-based organizations, and training providers to open pathways into careers that offer living wages, benefits, and long-term security.
Supporting wraparound services. Include childcare, transportation, and mentorship to ensure training programs are accessible and retention is strong.
Designing for co-benefits. Ensure decarb projects don’t just reduce emissions, but also improve health outcomes, lower utility costs, and create local economic opportunities.
Resources