June 30, 2021

Powering the Future through Clean Energy Careers

Energy

The State of Wisconsin set a goal that all electricity consumed in the state be 100% carbon free by 2050.  Michigan also has a goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050, and Iowa’s capital aims to run on 100% clean energy by 2035. But how do we get there?

“The first step begins with education, because we will need a clean energy workforce creating policies, developing new technologies, and installing renewable energy projects,” said Stacie Running, energy services manager with WPPI Energy. “Not only is a greener future great for the earth in the reduction of carbon emissions, but it is also great for the development of new career paths.”

WPPI Energy and its 51 member utilities are collaborating with Slipstream to create educational videos in support of local schools and to encourage young minds to consider career opportunities within the energy sector — especially in the clean energy space. Slipstream is an organization that aims to inspire new solutions to energy challenges. Careers highlighted in the videos include electric superintendents, lineworkers, installation workers for renewable energy projects, project managers, solar technicians, policymakers, and more.

To help spread the word, WPPI Energy is working with the Wisconsin K-12 Energy Education Program (KEEP) and the Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA). Together, more than 40,000 high school students will view these videos and gain a greater understanding of career opportunities in the clean energy sector.

“These videos have been a fun way to share knowledge of the energy sector,” continued Running. “So far, WPPI Energy has seen some of our member utilities featured, and we’ve also had staff share their experiences via interviews. The videos bring a lot of educational value to our member communities, which are all located in the Midwest.”

Speaking with Dave Vigliotta, Director of Strategic Partnerships with Slipstream, he looks forward to adding even more videos later this summer. “Future videos will highlight the facilities director for a major hospital in Wisconsin, and also look at a technical college that offers a program on electrical power distribution,” stated Vigliotta. “We want to demonstrate the wide array of clean energy jobs available, and show people the path towards a career in clean energy.”

To watch current videos and sign up to stay posted on how the transition to a clean energy economy is accelerating new career paths, visit slipstreaminc.org/cleanenergycareers.