We worked with Professor Susan Christopherson and her Cornell graduate workshop (CRP 635) to research job creation potential in the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors for our region. These findings were presented at several local and regional venues to policymakers, business owners, and community leaders, along with a presentation on the interacting variables of the green jobs system developed by the ST Program Coordinator. Additional presentations on the green jobs system by the Program Coordinator were made at events in Syracuse, Cortland, Binghamton, and Ithaca to audiences of educators, students, guidance counselors, workforce development specialists, and elected officials.
Interviews and focus groups over the summer with energy sector businesses and workforce development staff revealed the need for a coordinated approach to matching demand for energy services with adequate staffing in local energy firms. Four additional roundtables to connect educators, economic development agencies, elected officials, workforce representatives, and green businesses were held in February 2009. Summer and fall meetings with labor unions and workforce agencies explored the formation of a Finger Lakes Apollo Alliance chapter.
