New US Apprenticeship Program Targets Offshore Wind Training

The Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) and the Power for America Training Trust Fund (P4A) are launching an apprenticeship program to provide training for renewable energy jobs, including those for offshore wind.

The new union program will provide skills training and a path to employment for in-demand jobs in the renewable energy sector, including the offshore and onshore wind, solar generation and battery storage sectors.

“These are the jobs of the future and if we’re going to remain on the cutting edge of the energy industry, the skills we teach must reflect those of the ever-changing energy industry,” said Jon Harmon, P4A Executive Director.

The earn-while-you-learn program, which will be certified by the Department of Labor (DOL), will see students earning a salary and benefits during their two-and-a-half-year attendance.

Once individuals complete the three-phase program, they will have a job with Consumers Energy, while further similar partnerships with other companies are anticipated in the coming years.

“The members who successfully move through this important program are a triple-threat within the renewable energy industry,” said James Slevin, UWUA President. “Armed with the know-how to move seamlessly between wind, solar and battery storage facilities, their skillsets will continue to be in demand for a long time to come.”