MCE’s efforts are focused on strengthening the local economy and ensuring a just transition to a clean energy economy. One of the ways we are doing this is through our Workforce Education and Training (WE&T) Program, which develops a longer-term pipeline of local, green job opportunities for our community members.

Since 2020 MCE has partnered with the Association for Energy Affordability (AEA) and Strategic Energy Innovations (SEI) to lower barriers for contractors who are interested in entering the electrification and energy efficiency field. The WE&T program matches job seekers to contractors within MCE’s service area and funds opportunities for paid on-the-job experience. The program also provides benefits to local energy efficiency contractors through green-collar workforce development and no-charge matching with prequalified, trained job seekers.

We spoke with Eco Performance Builders about the benefits they have experienced as local contractors who participated in the WE&T program.

Keith headshot, eco performance builders, mce workforce education and training

“This program creates another pathway for people to build careers in this industry, and with more people in this industry we can create more efficient and healthy homes. The potential of this program for local contractors is huge. One of the most difficult things in this industry is finding the right job seekers and connecting them to the right jobs. For companies like ours, opportunities that connect us to talent are huge. This program is really needed, and I hope to see it continue to grow.” – Keith O’Hara, President and CEO, Eco Performance Builders

Patch headshot, eco performance builders, mce workforce education and training

“Electrification is fast paced and there is a lot of potential for career growth. To be successful in this industry, you need to be technically and mechanically inclined and you also need to be physically fit and passionate. More avenues to connect contractors to job seekers is better because gaining on-the-job experience is essential. MCE’s program provides an opportunity for job seekers to be matched with organizations like ours that are actually doing the day-to-day electrification.” – Patch Garcia, Talent and Business Development Manager, Eco Performance Builders

MCE’s WE&T Program connects job seekers with energy efficiency and electrification contractors looking for enthusiastic team members. Successful candidates are matched with a vetted contractor to receive paid on-the-job training with the opportunity for employment in the growing green energy industry.

For contractors interested in participating in training and education, or to get matched with a job seeker, complete this interest form.