The range of careers and skills in Energy, Construction, and Utilities (ECU) careers is broad including facility management, skilled trades, and all elements of utility service. Pathways in this industry sector represent essential work in our communities, work that cannot be exported, and work that can lead to a great livelihood. ECU Regional Director David Teasdale acknowledges that employee demand is high enough that many people are hired with a high school diploma; however, he highlights that work in the ECU sector requires lifelong learning and continuous growth through earning certifications and acquiring new skills to stay relevant and expand earning potential. Employees who enter the field with training or certifications beyond a high school diploma position themselves to have a higher trajectory in their career.
Training options to prepare students for careers include Energy and Utilities pathways at Moorpark College and Oxnard College, Construction Technology at Ventura College, Union Building Trades apprenticeship programs, and energy training centers offered through Edison, So Cal Gas Company, and PG&E.
The increased emphasis on green energy will bring an array of new jobs to this industry sector in the next ten years.
