WHITE PLAINS, NY (September 17, 2025) — The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board has received a $500,000 grant from the New York State Department of Labor to launch clean energy career training for 50 local residents under the “Westchester for the Future” initiative.
The award, part of the Growing the Clean Energy Workforce program, targets equitable access to jobs in renewable energy, building electrification, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and other green industries. The statewide effort totals $5 million, with funding administered by the New York State Department of Labor and backed by the New York Power Authority’s Office of Just Energy Transition.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester is committed to preparing our residents for the jobs of the future, and this grant is a powerful investment in that vision. By expanding training in clean energy, we are not only opening doors for jobseekers — especially those in disadvantaged communities — but also ensuring our local employers have access to the skilled talent they need to grow. This is about equity, economic opportunity and building a more sustainable future for all of Westchester.”
The program will prioritize high-quality pre-apprenticeship and training to build a skilled workforce for the region’s expanding clean energy sector. WPWDB Executive Director Thom Kleiner said: “This grant allows us to deliver high-impact training that not only meets the needs of the clean energy economy but also ensures underserved populations across Westchester have direct access to these career opportunities. It’s a win for local jobseekers, for employers, and for the region’s environmental goals.”
The board plans to issue a Request for Proposals this fall to select training providers offering industry-aligned programs with wraparound services such as career counseling, case management and job placement support. At least 35% of participants will come from Disadvantaged Communities, following New York State Department of Labor equity guidelines.
To strengthen job placements, the WPWDB is collaborating with Sustainable Westchester and the Business Council of Westchester’s Clean Energy Action Coalition to connect graduates with regional employers seeking clean energy talent.
The initiative supports Westchester’s workforce equity and climate resilience efforts, aligning with Governor Hochul’s climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
For updates on the “Westchester for the Future” program and the training provider RFP, visit www.westchesterputnamonestop.com.
The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board is comprised of leaders and staff of state and county government agencies, non-profits, public education, and the private sector who work together to strengthen the partnerships between business, education, and service providers within the “Career Center Network” to meet the needs for a skilled workforce. The WPWDB pursues funding opportunities and develops model programs and leading-edge practices. The “Network” is made up of four Career Centers (White Plains, Mount Vernon, Peekskill, and Carmel) as well as partner agencies that provide state-of-the-art technology, training, resources, and services to youth, adults and employers.
For more information, visit www.westchesterputnamonestop.com.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.