Job Seekers + Employers

Building Bridges into the Green Building & Energy Economy

Equity-driven workforce solutions. Technical trainings. In-demand industry credentials.

PEA empowers participants from underrepresented communities with the knowledge, experience, and certifications needed to access stable, future-proof jobs in fields like solar, weatherization, green construction, and the building trades.

The impact is lasting. Residents gain pathways to stable careers. Employers gain a skilled workforce. Communities benefit from a more inclusive clean energy economy that creates opportunity while supporting long-term resilience.

Workforce Trainings

Since 2021, PEA has offered the Green Residential Construction Immersive Training (GRIT) program. GRIT connects Philadelphia residents — particularly those from underrepresented communities — to family-sustaining careers in the clean energy economy. Participants arrive with real-world experience and community roots. They leave credentialed and skilled, ready to enter stable careers in the clean energy economy.

- Hands-on training with trusted partners
- Industry-recognized certifications
- Essential soft skills
- Direct pathways to employment
- Programs aligned with employer demand
- Solar, weatherization, green construction

How It Works

Testimonials

“Young people in Philadelphia historically don’t have enough opportunities for skill-building and trades. GRIT helps young people become aware of the support services that they have access to and how to utilize those services.” – James Aye, Youth Empowerment for Advancement Hangout (YEAH Philly)

“I love this program. It was so enriching. I feel so much prouder of myself than before I started. I learned through this program that I can face any of my fears. My self discipline is a lot stronger than I thought it was. I’ve accomplished things I never thought was possible.”
– Mayamarie Hall, GRIT graduate, Cohort 7

Philadelphians are developing skills necessary to join the growing clean energy economy.

Here's How

School-Based Curriculum

Students are introduced to careers in the clean energy industry, gaining early exposure through hands-on learning opportunities and pathways into postsecondary training. PEA programs build long-term workforce skills and foster an early passion for the emerging clean energy sector.

Bright Solar Futures

In collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia, PEA developed the country’s first school-based solar energy training lab. PEA partners with the School District of Philadelphia to offer a Career Technical Education (CTE) vocational program and a supplemental paid summer program.

Solar Energy Curriculum

Bright Solar Futures follows a three-year, 1,080-hour solar energy vocational program. The curriculum trains high school students in solar and battery storage installation, design and sales, weatherization and construction basics, and job site safety.

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Employer Engagement

PEA partners with small- to mid-size contractors to strengthen hiring pipelines and support growth in the green building and clean energy industries. PEA is proud of our track record connecting participants with regional employers.

Talent Recruitment

Program graduates are in demand. They are certified, job-ready, and prepared for success. PEA recruits individuals historically overlooked in hiring pipelines, including justice-impacted adults and residents from communities disproportionately affected by disinvestment.

Employer Partners

Employers who partner with PEA gain access to trained, credentialed candidates who are familiar with job-site expectations, safety practices, and foundational technical skills. PEA offers to coordinate employer information sessions and on-site interviews with our program graduates.

Interested in Becoming an Employer Partner?

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