Renewable Energy

Electric Transmission and Distribution

Transmission and distribution workers keep the flow of electricity – whatever its source – going to homes and businesses safely and reliably. But this critical industry faces a shortage in skilled labor, creating high-growth, rewarding career opportunities throughout the U.S. that workers can access via apprenticeships and other shorter-term credentialing opportunities.

Select occupational examples:

• Lineworker: Often requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship program.

• Electrical substation technician: Typically requires an associate degree in electrical technology or a related field.

Natural Gas

From fueling power plants to keeping up with demand in the chemical manufacturing industry, natural gas is in high demand, and so are workers who can extract, process, and transport this cleaner-burning energy source. Credential pathways include certificate and apprenticeship programs.

Select occupational examples:

• Pipeline technician: Requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or on-the-job experience.

• Gas plant operator: Typically requires an associate degree in a technical field, such as process technology or instrumentation.

Renewable Energy

The target of significant government funding programs, renewable energy enjoys diverse sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal, that will shape the future of how we power our planet. Millions of good-paying jobs will be needed to realize that future.

Select occupational examples:

• Solar panel installer: Often requires technical training or on-the-job experience, but a high school diploma or equivalent is helpful.

• Wind turbine technician: Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or on-the-job experience.

21st Century Coal

The future may be bright for renewable energy, but in the interim, coal generates about one fourth of the nation’s electricity. It remains the primary source of energy in many states. Modern approaches have made coal-sourced electricity production cleaner than in the past. In addition to transferrable skills that support maintenance, transportation, technician, and other traditional roles, there is demand for workers who can support clean coal initiatives like carbon capture and storage.

Select occupational examples:

• Carbon capture and storage (CCS) Technician: This role involves monitoring and maintaining equipment used to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants.

• Environmental compliance specialist: Ensures that coal operations adhere to environmental regulations and standards.

• Coal mine automation engineer: Designs and implements automated systems to improve efficiency and safety in coal mining operations.

Note: While some roles within these specializations may require a degree, strong technical skills and certifications can also provide entry points to rewarding careers in the industry.

Water

Water engineers and technicians aren’t just needed to support a critical segment in the renewable energy sector but also help ensure a sustainable supply of clean water for communities and industries, addressing challenges like water scarcity and pollution. Growth occupations include water transportation workers, plant and system operators, resource specialists, water technicians, and more. 

Select occupational examples:

• Water treatment plant operator: Typically requires an associate degree in a technical field, such as environmental technology or water treatment.

• Wastewater treatment plant operator: Typically requires an associate degree in a technical field, such as environmental technology or wastewater treatment.