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Workforce Development

We are offering comprehensive hands-on training and preparation for certifications to ready participants for their career in energy efficiency. The program comes at no cost to participants who complete either the Newcomer or Skilled training. Participants will take the needed exams at the end of training to earn three Building Performance Institute certifications. These certifications can open doors to careers with the following earnings potential:

Retrofit Installer

Up To$52k/year*

Crew Leader

Up To$45k/year*

Energy Auditor

Up To$50k/year*

Quality Control Inspector

Up To$55k/year*

Workforce Development Cohorts

There are two cohorts available for potential participants:

Newcomer | For those new to energy efficiency

Newcomer training is tailored for individuals new to the energy-efficiency sector and offers an immersive experience that guides participants toward employment opportunities, such as energy efficiency service providers, utility workers, and others. The training comes at no cost to participants. Participants will receive training on topics that include energy principles, air leakage, HVAC, insulation, and more.

Training Structure

The eight-week training is a full-time structure.

  • Upcoming Dates: August 19 – October 11, 2024
  • Days and Times: Monday – Friday, 8:30AM – 4:30PM

Newcomer Cohort Certifications

Training Benefits

  • $17.50/hour wage
  • Daily meals
  • Possible childcare stipends
  • Gas cards (up to $75/week)
  • On-the-job experience
  • Wraparound services (mental health and financial wellness workshops)
  • Completion bonus

Participant Criteria

  • 18 years old or older
  • Reside in the ComEd service area
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Have a valid driver’s license
  • Pass a background check
  • Pass a drug test

To apply for the Newcomer cohort, click the link below.
Apply Here

Skilled | For those already working in the energy efficiency, HVAC, or weatherization sectors

Skilled training is crafted for experienced energy-efficiency professionals to gain advanced training that will pave the way for increased wages and professional growth.

Training Structure

The five-week training is a part-time structure that allows for minimal interruption to current employment.

  • Upcoming Dates
    • May 13 – June 13, 2024
    • October 14 – November 15, 2024
  • Days and Times: Monday – Wednesday, 8:30AM – 4:30PM

Skilled Cohort Certifications

Training Benefits

  • $600 weekly stipend
  • Daily meals
  • Gas cards (up to $75/week)
  • Access to additional wraparound services (upon request)

Participant Criteria

  • 18 years or older
  • Currently employed in energy efficiency, HVAC, or weatherization field
  • Reside in the ComEd service area
  • High school diploma/GED

To apply for the Skilled cohort, click the link below.
Apply Here

For questions about WFD, please contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone at (855) 433-2700.

*salary figures provided by greenworkforceconnect.org