The Corps Network Becomes Partner in U.S. Department of Energy Workforce Accelerator Program

Submitted by Sydni Dobson on 10/29/2020

Washington, DC (October 27, 2020) The Corps Network – the National Association of Service and Conservation Corps – is pleased to become a partner in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Better Buildings Workforce Accelerator . Officially launched in 2020, this three-year initiative seeks to raise the level of energy efficiency knowledge in the nation’s building-related workforce.

The ultimate goal of the Better Buildings Workforce Accelerator is to set the U.S. on track to make the nation’s homes, commercial buildings and industrial plants more energy efficient. Accelerator partners include educators, workforce training providers, industry practitioners, trade associations, utility agencies, and government agencies. As a partner, The Corps Network will gain access to a variety of resources, including opportunities to receive technical assistance from building science experts. Partners will also share their own best practices and contribute to developing guidance, case studies, and educational materials.

The Corps Network anticipates that participation in this initiative will benefit Corps that deliver training in energy efficiency and green building, as well as Corpsmembers wanting to go into energy efficiency careers after their service term.

“An increasing number of Service and Conservation Corps are providing young adults hands-on training in energy efficiency, green energy, and green building. We are proud of the work Corps do to increase access to rewarding, well-paying jobs in the growing energy efficiency sector,” said Mary Ellen Sprenkel, President and CEO of The Corps Network. “We are excited to join the Better Buildings Workforce Accelerator and look forward to opportunities to both showcase the training programs Corps operate, and access information to make these programs even stronger.”

Reports show that cost-effective energy efficiency upgrades in U.S. buildings could save close to $100 billion annually in energy bills. However, these savings are only possible if the U.S. invests in preparing a workforce of qualified people who understand building science and energy efficiency. Through collaboration with the Accelerator partners, this initiative aims to build awareness about building efficiency careers, streamline pathways to building efficiency careers, and improve workforce skills. This three-year effort will support the vision of the U.S. building workforce as a global leader in delivering quality efficiency products and services to American residents and businesses.