ComEd celebrates first graduates of Energy Efficiency Training programme

ComEd has announced the graduation of the first cohort from its Market Development Initiative (MDI), which aims to create a skilled and diverse workforce for the energy efficiency sector. 

The programme, which offers training and resources, saw 12 local residents from the Chicago area complete a five-week course to gain certification in advanced building standards and other industry knowledge.

"As we work towards a cleaner energy future, ComEd is committed to ensuring that the opportunities that come with the clean energy transition are accessible to all interested businesses and job seekers," said Melissa Washington, Senior Vice President of Customer Operations and Strategic Initiatives at ComEd. 

"With jobs in energy efficiency poised to grow in the years ahead, it’s going to require an all-hands-on-deck effort to make sure all who are interested are prepared to take on the jobs and contracting opportunities that will come with it. Through MDI, ComEd and our partners are helping shape a more diverse and inclusive energy sector, where talented workers and firms in northern Illinois play a central role in the work to deliver a cleaner and more equitable future for our communities."

Reflecting the diversity of ComEd’s service area, over 90% of the graduates from MDI’s first class are people of colour, with varying educational backgrounds. They have earned certifications in Healthy Housing Principles, Building Science Principles, and Building Analyst Technicians.

 The credentials will enable them to pursue career advancements, including promotions and salary increases. For those owning heating and cooling businesses, the certifications allow them to offer expanded services and bid for larger contracts.

MDI, launched earlier this year, aims to build a pipeline of local job seekers and entrepreneurs equipped to meet the demands of the clean energy industry in Illinois. The initiative provides the necessary training for participants to perform energy efficiency work, helping customers lower energy use, reduce bills, and cut carbon emissions.

In partnership with Walker-Miller Energy Services and The Will Group, MDI offers two workforce training programmes to certify both new and experienced workers in the energy efficiency sector. 

"We’re proud to work with ComEd to not only advance the state’s clean energy goals but to help local and diverse businesses gain the skills needed to keep up with the expanding energy-efficiency industry," said Carla Walker-Miller, CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services.

"Participants’ new industry certifications and skills will allow them to contribute to the widespread adoption of energy-efficient practices that help reduce energy consumption, lowering both consumers’ energy bills and carbon footprint."

The programme also supports business owners and entrepreneurs by providing resources for navigating the procurement process of energy efficiency projects. Participants receive assistance in joining a searchable vendor database and education on ComEd’s energy efficiency offerings. Graduates can apply to become part of ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Service Provider Network, gaining new business opportunities and offering energy efficiency improvements, incentives, discounts, and rebates to ComEd customers.

Stephen Taylor, Director of Professional Services for The Will Group stated, "The launch of MDI builds on our longstanding partnership with ComEd to remove hiring barriers and prepare members of our communities for the growing number of opportunities in the clean energy sector."

The initiative aims to expand energy-efficient and clean energy technologies in Illinois, supporting the goals of Illinois’ Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).

Anthony Simmons, an MDI graduate and President of II Bulls Mechanical Services Inc., expressed his enthusiasm:

 "Although I have been in the HVAC industry for approximately 20 years, technology has advanced rapidly to make heating and cooling smarter, safer, and cleaner. 

“As more and more customers ask about heat pumps, I’ll be ready to help customers decarbonise their homes. I’m excited to leverage my newfound training to deliver greater value to my customers while driving business growth for my company."