MCE is committed to leading California toward an equitable, clean, and affordable energy economy. A key part of this commitment is ensuring that the transition to clean energy creates opportunities for everyone—especially those most impacted by climate change and systemic barriers to well-paying jobs.
The clean energy economy offers numerous job opportunities in construction, renewable energy development, energy efficiency, and electric vehicles. Last year in California, the renewable energy sector employed 136,600 workers. As the state advances its clean energy goals, the demand for skilled workers will continue to grow, opening up even more opportunities for those looking to build a career in this evolving industry.
The Power of Partnership
Thanks to the Marin Community Foundation’s Climate Justice Grant, awarded to MCE last year, we partnered with The LIME Foundation’s NextGen Trades Academy to help grow the local workforce and meet the rising demand for construction trade jobs in the clean tech economy.
The NextGen Trades Academy, an initiative of The LIME Foundation, provides students with hands-on training in the trades, with a focus on supporting young people who have historically faced barriers to economic opportunities. Investing in workforce development not only helps address labor shortages in critical industries but also creates pathways to stable, well-paying careers for young people who may not otherwise have access.
Spotlight on the Winter Cohort
Right now, the NextGen Trades Academy’s 2025 winter cohort is learning the fundamentals of the trades and participating in career mentorship. MCE staff has been joining weekend classes to provide training on a range of topics that directly contribute to California’s clean energy future, including energy efficiency, sustainable construction, and renewable energy.
This motivated group of students is gaining hands-on experience. Over a recent weekend, we joined them as they assembled wooden birdhouses—an activity that helped them build confidence using power tools, constructing structures, and applying creative solutions to technical challenges. This type of learning environment fosters personal growth and allows students to explore their natural talents, whether in construction, electrical work, or design.
Equity and Economic Opportunity in Clean Energy
For many students, the program represents a pathway to economic stability, career growth and the opportunity to contribute to the clean energy transition. By prioritizing training for young people from historically underserved communities, the NextGen Trades Academy and MCE are helping break down barriers to economic mobility. Equitable workforce development not only helps close the gap in job openings but also supports long-term careers that strengthen local communities and foster economic resilience.
MCE is proud to support initiatives like the NextGen Trades Academy that align with our vision of expanding equitable access to clean energy careers. As we continue this partnership, we look forward to expanding training opportunities, reaching more young workers, and ensuring that our clean energy future is built by a diverse, skilled workforce.
If you or someone you know is interested in joining the NextGen Trades Academy—or if you’d like to support workforce development efforts in the green sector—we encourage you to get involved.
