Building a Climate Workforce, with Julia Hatton

Introduction As California works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings, the transition to energy-efficient homes is an important opportunity for climate careers. The Rising Sun Center for Opportunity, a California-based nonprofit managed by Julia Hatton, helps address challenges faced by those in underserved communities when it comes to job training. Through hands-on programs, participants can gain valuable skills as they work to improve green buildings. Background Buildings account for over 40% of the global energy consumption and carbon emissions, making improvements to the energy and water efficiency of local homes an important part of climate strategy. As a result, the transition to clean energy creates a high demand for workers trained in energy efficiency and green construction—and there is a global shortage of workers with the applicable skills.  The Rising Sun Center for Opportunity assists not only with the immediate need, but also in building career pathways focused on long-term climate resilience. By employing young people from low-income backgrounds in the Bay and Central California, this nonprofit works as a launchpad for future climate action. Advantages Climate job training addresses both economic and environmental challenges simultaneously. Participants gain practical skills to help them enter the green industry, while households can receive services that save energy and water.  The hands-on approach that the Rising Sun Center for Opportunity utilizes furthers this endeavor, especially with the focus it has on leveling the playing field. With programs specializing in preparing youth, women, and individuals in reentry, a diverse range of participants can work directly in homes and communities. This provides immediate climate benefits to recipients of service, while workers gain experience in real-world projects that equip them with skills necessary for a long-term career. Drawbacks and Critiques Some contend that climate job training doesn’t always translate into long-term climate employment. Although the Rising Sun Center for Opportunity may provide an efficient starting point, participants are not guaranteed a green career, especially if employers require other additional experiences or skills.  There is also a need to ensure that the climate transition doesn’t just create jobs; it should also help establish economic power for those who have been marginalized from careers, as Hatton emphasizes. Although the Rising Sun Center for Opportunity aims to coordinate efforts from a wide group of historically disadvantaged communities, it’s crucial that efforts translate into real impact. The Guest’s Take Ms. Julia Hatton believes that investment in workers in green jobs is crucial to advance response to climate change. Rather than identifying job creation and reducing emissions as separate goals, Hatton sees potential in merging and combating both actions at once: by allowing them to reinforce each other. About the Guest Ms. Julia Hatton is the President & Chief Executive Officer at Rising Sun Center for Opportunity, committed to climate job training for underserved communities to lead climate action. She takes charge in leading innovation in the workforce and climate sector alike. Other Resources & Further Reading Rising Sun Center for Opportunity Website: Rising Sun ScienceDirect: Energy-related carbon emissions in the building sector Green Jobs Network: Climate Job Training California Climate Investments: Workforce Development