WindWinRI career pathway training program

The North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce awarded a Real Jobs RI Workforce Solution Grant to continue and expand their WindWinRI Offshore Wind Energy Career Training Pathway System

North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce announced they have been awarded a Real Jobs RI Workforce Solutions Grant from the Department of Labor and Training to continue and expand their WindWinRI Offshore Wind Energy Career Training Pathway System. In 2019, the Chamber was named “world changing idea” by Fast Company magazine for this career pathway program.

“Rhode Island has been a national leader in offshore wind. Investing in our future workforce is key to solidifying the state’s commitment to renewable energy and ensuring a more sustainable future. We are excited for the innovative WindWinRI program to continue and expand, giving students across the state exposure to jobs in offshore wind and setting them up for success in this dynamic, growing industry”- said RI DLT Director Matt Weldon.

The North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce continues to be the leader of a consortium of education, training and business partners dedicated to implementing a demand-driven career pathway training system that meets the needs of Rhode Island businesses. Dozens of students in four high schools (North Kingstown, Shea in Pawtucket, Exeter/West Greenwich, and Block Island) have enrolled in their Offshore Wind Energy certification, career exploration, with students participating in hands-on offshore wind events such as the Wind Turbine Competition. Students can enroll in the program during their four years of high school with a goal of receiving an Offshore Wind Energy certificate upon completion of the career pathway system. The managing team will be expanding their program to include four additional high schools in Rhode Island that will be assessed and determined.

Additionally in 2022, the North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their second “Rhode Island Offshore Wind Energy Supply Chain Symposium” for local businesses and stakeholders. Their first symposium (2018) was the impetus to designing and building an offshore wind energy career pathway system.

“The Chamber thanks Director Matt Weldon on recognizing and supporting our WindWinRI career pathway training program that provides students the opportunity to receive necessary trainings and credentials for the fastest growing industry on the East Coast. Many of these skills are transferrable into other industries as well. The program works closely with local industry businesses and educators to ensure that we continue to meet the workforce demands”- said NK Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kristin Urbach.

The North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce is one of Rhode Island’s leading business membership and trade organizations located in North Kingstown, RI that includes the Quonset Business Park that employs more than 10,000 people within over two hundred businesses. Quonset, the home to Port Davisville, has served as the staging, storage and assembly area for wind turbine equipment.