Workforce Trainings
Hands-on technical education. Paid participation. Wraparound support.
PEA recognizes the difficulties many construction trade employers encounter when recruiting or retaining skilled entry-level workers. At the same time, Philadelphia is home to many residents who are eager to work, particularly adults seeking career re-entry after justice involvement, workers transitioning from low-wage jobs, and individuals historically excluded from trade pathways.
PEA and our network of training providers collaborate to provide accessible training and upskilling opportunities for individuals interested in the trades. By providing wraparound support to address any barriers a trainee may face, our approach increases long-term retention and advancement outcomes for graduates.
Green Residential Construction Immersive Training (GRIT)
GRIT equips participants with hands-on technical skills in construction fundamentals, safety, building science, and energy efficiency. Throughout the paid 16-week program, participants earn industry-recognized credentials, build professional skills, and connect directly with employers seeking entry-level talent.
Training Certifications
- OSHA 10 & 30
- EPA Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP)
- BPI Air Leakage Control Installer (ALCI)
- NCCER Level 1 Certification
- S/P2 Safety & Pollution Prevention
On-the-Job Experience
- 6 weeks of classroom and lab training
- 10 weeks of on-the-job training constructing and retrofitting affordable homes
- 9 work-readiness sessions in professional development, workplace etiquette, and conflict resolution.
- 1 career fair with employer partners
Job Placement Support
PEA serves as a connector, convener, and sector lead, supporting a coordinated workforce ecosystem across Philadelphia. Workforce training graduates have accepted jobs with: PGW, City of Philadelphia, Arsenal Solar, Habitat for Humanity, Philadelphia Sanitation Department, Protechs Construction, Solar States, and more!
Wraparound Support
To remove barriers that prevent many Philadelphians from securing employment, services include:
- Transit assistance, gas cards, and driver’s license courses
- Tool kits, personal protective equipment, work gear
- Trade certifications and exam preparation
- Referrals to housing stability resources, food, and financial supports
- Job readiness including interview practice and resume and portfolio preparation
- Stipends and milestone-based financial incentives
Post-Program Services
Access to externships, pre-apprenticeships, and additional training opportunities, including electrical, HVAC, building maintenance, general construction, heavy equipment, and driving courses.
Our Training Providers
Program Graduate Testimonials
“GRIT taught me almost everything I need to carry out my dream career. I am now determined to do whatever it takes to reach my goals as I continue learning the carpentry concepts and skills that will make me valuable to my team.”
– Marcus Posse
“GRIT gave me the opportunity to push myself to be stronger because I knew that so many people were watching me and depending on me to be an example. I had to push harder, learn harder, achieve harder.”
– Amanda Rodriguez
“Coming to GRIT showed me a lot of things about myself. Before, I wasn’t as disciplined. Now, looking at how I am today, I’ve made great improvements, and now I feel like I’m ready for a career.”
– Raqib Abdul-Hadi
Training Partners
PEA facilitates training programs, contracting with trusted partners to deliver occupation-specific instruction, on-the-job training, and workforce readiness services across a wide range of disciplines. Areas of focus include residential construction, HVAC, electrical, solar installation, building maintenance, and green infrastructure, among others.
Coordinated Southeastern PA Workforce Development System Challenge
PEA sponsors and partners on complementary training initiatives that expand access to solar, energy efficiency, and construction career pathways for adults across Greater Philadelphia. Programs are particularly focused on serving individuals from communities historically underrepresented in the trades.
PEA serves as the energy sector lead for the Good Jobs Challenge’s Coordinated Southeastern PA Workforce Development System. In partnership with PhilaWorks, funding through the Southeastern PA Good Jobs Challenge has enabled PEA to expand workforce development programs across the region. Together, these programs prepare motivated job seekers to enter the workforce with practical experience, certifications, and placement support.
Bright Solar Futures (BSF)
Bright Solar Futures prepares Philadelphians for careers in the growing solar energy industry. PEA offers programs for high schoolers (BSF) and young adults ages 18-30 (Opportunity Youth).
Introduction to Solar Fundamentals
Foundational knowledge in solar installation techniques, system design principles, and job site safety best practices
Three-Year High School Program
Details coming soon
13-Week Paid Training (Opportunity Youth)
- NABCEP Associates solar certification
- OSHA-30 certificate
- 6- weeks paid internship
- Job & apprenticeship placement support