A Growing Industry with a Shrinking Workforce

As North Carolina ramps up clean energy and weatherization efforts under the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) — bolstered by federal investments such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) — a major challenge has emerged: a shortage of skilled, job-ready workers.

This shortage is especially pronounced among individuals from low-income and disadvantaged communities (LIDAC), who face barriers accessing the clean energy workforce. Without a pipeline of trained workers, the state’s ambitious sustainability goals are at risk.

North Carolina has expressed its intent to double or even triple the number of homes weatherized in the coming years, a goal that will require a significantly expanded and qualified workforce. Yet subgrantee organizations consistently report challenges in recruiting, training, and retaining enough contractors and technicians to keep pace with demand. The need for scalable, accessible, and accredited training is increasingly important.

A Pre-Apprenticeship Program Designed for Job Growth and Impact

To help meet the rising demand for skilled workers in clean energy and weatherization, Everblue, in partnership with Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, launched a practical, industry-certified Energy Efficiency Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

The program supports economic development and energy affordability by:

• Reaching individuals from low-income backgrounds and creating clear pathways into stable, skilled trades.
• Combining online instruction with hands-on, instructor-led training, giving participants real-world experience in energy efficiency.
• Offering critical support such as transportation and childcare allowing more people to participate and succeed.
• Building both technical expertise and job readiness skills, preparing graduates for long-term careers that support clean energy and energy-saving efforts across North Carolina.

This initiative is helping to create jobs, grow the local workforce, and build a foundation for future energy independence.

The program’s first cohort recently celebrated a major milestone with the successful completion of training, paving the way for career advancement and continued education.

Career Readiness and Community Empowerment

Over several weeks, participants balanced family life, jobs, and coursework to gain certifications in Building Science Principles, Weatherization 101, and environmental safety topics like asbestos and lead. Hands-on field training allowed them to apply concepts in real-world scenarios, building confidence and job-readiness.

Key Outcomes:

• 80% of graduates expressed strong intent to pursue careers in weatherization.
• Participants are offered multiple post-training pathways: HVAC, Electrical, and Carpentry.
• Local contractors are exploring opportunities to hire graduates.
• Positive participant feedback highlights the program’s supportive structure and transformative impact.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Looking Ahead

This successful first cohort is only the beginning. With strong outcomes and community-driven feedback, Everblue and Goodwill are focused on expanding the program to reach more individuals and create a skilled clean energy workforce across North Carolina. The long-term goal is to support energy affordability, stimulate job growth, and strengthen the state’s clean energy economy.

“Together, we’re taking the next step toward a brighter, more sustainable future,” said Laura Smailes, Program Coordinator at Everblue. “We’re excited to build on this momentum.”