WCAC Awarded $50,000 MassCEC Planning Grant to Build Clean Energy Career Pathways for Youth
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Worcester Community Action Council Awarded $50,000 MassCEC Planning Grant to Build Clean Energy Career Pathways for Youth
Worcester, MA – October 16, 2025 – Worcester Community Action Council, Inc. (WCAC) has been awarded a $50,000 Planning Grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) to design a new program connecting youth directly to clean energy jobs. Led by WCAC’s Job & Education Center (JEC), the initiative will bring together staff from WCAC’s Energy and Resiliency Center departments, five youth participants, and partners including SMOC’s Green Jobs Academy, MassHire Central Region Workforce Board (MCRWB), and local clean energy vendors.
The grant will fund a planning work group to develop the program’s design, timeline, and evaluation strategy, aiming to create a clear pipeline into clean energy and energy efficiency careers. WCAC will leverage its 60 years of experience in the energy sector and its strong record in workforce development to help young people access training and employment opportunities in this growing field.
“MassCEC’s investment helps us design a program that not only prepares participants for clean energy jobs, but also supports their personal growth and financial stability,” said Patti Ovalles, JEC Director.
The planning process will focus on identifying employer partners, designing curriculum, and ensuring youth receive the wrap-around support needed to succeed, such as transportation assistance, food access, mental health referrals, and case management. Through collaboration with industry and workforce partners, WCAC aims to ensure participants are well-prepared for sustainable, high-demand careers in clean energy.
This grant builds on WCAC’s most recent green jobs training grant from the City of Worcester ARPA funds. As part of this effort, WCAC partnered with Green Jobs Academy to deliver a two-week Weatherization Training program. Four participants successfully completed the program, earning certifications in Lead Safety and OSHA 10, along with stipends and essential starter tools. A fifth participant is currently completing the training. WCAC is actively working with the City’s Energy Department to connect graduates with paid, two-week work experience, while continuing to support participants through regular communication and case management.
For more information, please contact Cheyenne Courtney, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, at 508-754-1176 ext. 126.
