A new report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimates that by 2030, the demand for wind energy workers in the US could reach 258,000, while the supply of full-time workers might only reach 134,000, resulting in a shortfall of approximately 124,000 workers [edfb608c]. The report suggests that educational training programs, such as the US Department of Energy Collegiate Wind Competition, could help meet the growing demand for trained wind energy workers. The study is the first to use a system dynamics model to quantify the wind energy workforce gap.
The report also identifies strategies to close the wind energy workforce gap, including collaboration between industry and educational institutions, the establishment of internship and apprenticeship programs, and partnerships with community-based organizations focused on diversity and inclusion [57c736aa]. These strategies aim to bridge the gap between the projected demand and supply of wind energy workers. By working together, industry and educational institutions can ensure that students are aware of the opportunities in the wind industry and provide them with the necessary training and support to pursue careers in this field. Internship and apprenticeship programs can offer hands-on experience and help individuals develop the skills needed for wind energy jobs. Additionally, partnerships with community-based organizations focused on diversity and inclusion can help ensure that underrepresented groups have access to these opportunities.
The study highlights the importance of collaboration and proactive measures to address the wind energy workforce gap. By implementing the strategies outlined in the report, the US can meet the growing demand for wind energy workers and build a skilled and diverse workforce in the renewable energy sector. This will not only support the expansion of the wind industry but also contribute to the transition to a clean and sustainable energy future [57c736aa].