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Equipping Communities to: Understand Entry Points to Careers

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How to Enter the Industry

There are many pathways into the energy sector, offering options for people with different interests, experiences, and education levels. Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in high schools and community colleges provide early exposure to hands-on skills and industry knowledge. Apprentice readiness programs (ARPs) and pre-apprenticeship programs help participants build foundational skills and prepare for entry into registered apprenticeships (RAPs), which combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Many skilled trade careers in energy are available through union apprenticeship programs, which offer structured pathways to journey-level credentials and strong wages. Others enter the field through certificate programs, two- or four-year degrees, or by transitioning from military service, where technical experience and teamwork translate well to energy careers. Together, these pathways create multiple entry points into a dynamic industry that values skill, dedication, and a commitment to powering the future.

Explore Different Careers

Lineworker, gas technician, welder, electrician, or plant operator are just a few of many – choose one or two that fit their interests and strengths.

Many careers require certificates, apprenticeships, or college programs

OSHA safety training, or CTE classes, and a valid driver’s license.

Prepare for pre-employment tests

JATC, WorkKeys, CAST, or ASVAB, are some of the common pre-employment tests.

Applying for jobs

Apprenticeships or entry-level jobs, attend info sessions, and network with unions, workforce centers, and community organizations.

man-optimistically-looking-for-jobs-on-computer

The Importance of Credentials

Credentials and certificates are essential in the trades because they demonstrate verified skills, knowledge, and safety competence. They make workers more employable, support career advancement, and often lead to higher wages. Industry-recognized credentials also provide portability, allowing workers to move between employers or regions more easily. To learn more, go to Licenses & Certifications That Help You Stand Out

Transferable Skills

Many skills gained in other industries transfer seamlessly into energy careers. Workers from construction bring experience with tools, blueprints, and job-site safety; those from manufacturing understand production systems, machinery, and quality control. Military veterans often excel in teamwork, discipline, and technical operations, qualities highly valued in the energy field. Even IT professionals can transition smoothly, as the industry increasingly relies on digital systems, data analytics, and cybersecurity. These transferable skills provide a strong foundation for success in energy’s hands-on, high-tech, and safety-focused environment.

 

Use your transferable skills

Locating Funding Resources for Certifications and Assessments

Community-based organizations and workforce development systems play a vital role in helping individuals access financial support for training, credentials and certifications, and pre-employment assessments. The following list outlines some of the major funding sources and examples to help your organization connect clients to available resources.

Community-Based and Local Nonprofit Resources

Local organizations often serve as a first point of access for training assistance, case management, and wraparound services. Many provide direct funding or help clients apply for external grants and programs. Community-based organizations should work collaboratively with other community-based organizations and workforce development boards to maximize funding streams.

Examples:

  • Urban League workforce and training initiatives
  • Goodwill Industries employment and credentialing programs
  • YWCA workforce development programs
  • Community Action Agencies or local energy partnerships supporting energy jobs and skilled trades pathways

Federal Programs

  • Federal funding sources can cover tuition, testing fees, tools, and supportive services for individuals pursuing technical or trade careers.

    Examples:

    • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): Provides Individual Training Accounts (ITAs) and other funding for eligible jobseekers to earn industry-recognized credentials
    • Pell Grants: Federal financial aid for low- to moderate-income students enrolled in approved certificate or degree programs
    • Workforce Pell Grants: Federal financial aid for low- to moderate-income students enrolled in short-term workforce training programs (expected to begin July 2026)
    • GI Bill: Offers education and training benefits to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families
    • Registered Apprenticeships: Federally funded or subsidized programs allowing participants to earn wages while training

State and Local Training Funds & Workforce Boards

State and regional workforce systems manage funding for short-term training, credentialing, and upskilling programs aligned with industry demand.

Examples:

  • State Departments of Labor or Employment: administer training grants and dislocated worker funds
  • Local Workforce Development Boards (WDBs): administer WIOA resources through American Job Centers/One Stops and community partners
  • State Energy Initiatives: fund programs supporting energy, construction, and utility workforce development

Employer and Union Sponsored Programs

Employers and labor unions are key partners in workforce training. Many provide full or partial funding for apprenticeships, certifications, and tuition reimbursement.

Examples:

  • Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATCs): union programs that pay for technical instruction, testing, and certifications
  • Utility Companies and Energy Employers: often offer tuition assistance, internship stipends, or pre-apprenticeship funding
  • Employer-School Partnerships: collaborations with technical colleges or trade schools

Scholarships and Nonprofit Grant Programs

Private foundations, associations, and nonprofit organizations offer scholarships that support individuals entering or advancing in the energy and skilled trades sectors.

Examples:

  • Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation: scholarships for individuals pursuing skilled trade certifications
  • American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE): scholarships supporting underrepresented populations in energy careers
  • Tradeswomen and Women in Energy Organizations: grants or stipends for training and testing costs
  • Utility Company Foundations: workforce and community development programs

    Find Out More

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