Climate Action and Resiliency

Summary of objective implementation status (achievements or progress over last year; significant delays or issues, etc.)

Workforce Investment Board (WIB) staff have been scanning and applying for grants to fund the development of a workforce development program focused on electrification. Given the limited available funding, staff are homing in on areas within electrification that are in the highest demand for workforce training. While the customer demand for climate resilient building technologies is growing, existing local contractor businesses do not seem to be clamoring for training. Training on climate resilient technologies is being handled by Sonoma Clean Power and they report no wait lists or other issues signaling unmet needs.

Staff are developing an implementation plan for the funding for Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP), provides certification to Electricians in installing Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (e.g. charging stations). Funding for the program is earmarked by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Key milestone update (include relevant metrics, if applicable)

• June, 2024: Secure funding for the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program
• From 2024-2028, train 60 contractors in the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program

Coordination and partnership update

WIB staff have worked hand in hand with the Economic Development Board, the Energy and Sustainability Division, Sonoma Clean Power, North Coast Builders’ Exchange and various union trade organizations. All of these entities have been part of the conversation seeking to understand where there is unmet needs in workforce training related to climate resiliency. A group of stakeholders toured the Sonoma Clean Power Advanced Energy Center.

Community, equity and climate update

Should these training programs be implemented in Sonoma County, the local community will be the primary beneficiary, including those for whom 2+ hours of travel to receive such training wouldn’t be possible.

Funding narrative (If this objective received Strategic Plan funding in year 1 or year 2, please provide a status of expenditures to date.)

Funding for the program is earmarked by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.