We’re reimagining systems-change to include the voices of all of our stakeholders.

Connecting the green economy stakeholders is a key step in ensuring a seamless transition to a cleaner, greener, more resilient city. The Green Economy Network can help. By surveying employers, workforce trainers, and “boots on the ground” workers, we combine their lived experiences and real time labor market data to workshop policy solutions for the green workforce of the future. We welcome government agencies and philanthropies into the fold, recognizing that our city’s government and philanthropists hold the key to the successful implementation of a sustainable New York City.

Our Must-Haves

In August of 2025, we asked our members what it would take to ensure their participants succeed. This is what we heard from the field:

Fund wraparound supports as a key component of workforce development

Access to transportation, childcare, stipends, housing support and legal services are fundamental to trainee success. Funding streams must cover these essentials as core workforce infrastructure, just as a full-time or part-time position would.

Align training standards to actual emerging roles

EV technicians, solar installers, energy auditors, and building automation specialists are in demand, yet standards and certifications are unclear. Policymakers should coordinate with employers and training providers to establish transparent occupational pathways.

Strengthen bridges to advanced skills

Introductory trainings open the door to entry level — but many participants stall when moving to advanced certifications due to costs, equipment needs, or employer bias. Investment in tiered training models and subsidized certifications is critical.

Expand apprenticeships and employer partnerships

Employers often expect a year of experience for “entry-level” roles. Expanding on-the-job training requirements, incentivizing employer participation through tax credits, and funding apprenticeships can close this experience gap.

Standardize workforce metrics across agencies

Training providers are competing for funding with inconsistent expectations. The city and state should set shared metrics to evaluate outcomes fairly, reduce duplication, and strengthen accountability

Read the Voices from the Green Frontline Brief
Two men engaged in a serious conversation, one holding a smartphone, in an indoor setting. In the background, there are two women, one wearing a baseball cap and another with a hat, with a black and dark gray wall.
A group of young people and a man posing for a photo outside a historic building with large white columns. The man is making a peace sign, and some of the young people are wearing blue shirts with the word 'STRIVE' printed on them.
A group of diverse people standing on steps in front of a government building with Greek columns and large windows, some holding bags and taking photos.
A man giving a presentation in a conference room with a large screen displaying a slide titled 'Clean Energy Certifications: Overview by Sector.' There are seated attendees, a woman at a podium, and chairs in the room.
People sitting and listening to two women speaking outdoors on a sunny day along a waterfront with skyscrapers across the water.
A woman speaking into a microphone at an indoor event with a banner displaying logos and text related to green economy and sustainability in the background.

Supporting local regulations through community reinvestment

New York City’s transition to clean energy requires a skilled workforce. But where should these workers come from? Our network of workforce providers train and upskill New Yorkers from communities most affected by climate change.

Advocating for city, state, and federal support for green initiatives

The Green Economy Action Plan positions NYC to be a leader in climate resilience. The Green Economy Network mobilizes unique organizations and stakeholders to rally behind policy and funding that ensures the smooth transition to clean energy.

Learn more about the Green Economy Action Plan