FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREERS: QUEENS’ NEXT GENERATION OF CLEAN ENERGY TALENT TAKES THE STAGE

The Queens Chamber of Commerce celebrated the successful culmination of its Student Workforce Development Program on Monday, May 11, at Queens College, recognizing dozens of students participating in a workforce initiative designed to prepare young New Yorkers for careers in the rapidly expanding clean energy economy.
Supported through a grant from Hydro-Québec, the program comes at a pivotal moment for New York’s clean energy transition following the completion of the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE), a transformative transmission project connecting Quebec hydropower to Astoria, Queens. More than a decade in the making, the CHPE project will deliver approximately 20 percent of New York City’s clean hydropower supply and marks a major milestone in the region’s renewable energy future.
“Queens is playing a major role in shaping New York’s clean energy future, and it is critical that our students and local communities benefit directly from that growth,” said Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. “This program is about creating real pathways into the green economy by connecting students with the skills, mentorship, and professional opportunities needed to succeed in one of the fastest-growing sectors of our workforce.”
“The completion of the CHPE project represents a historic investment in clean energy infrastructure, but equally important is investing in the people who will help sustain and grow this industry for decades to come,” said Pete Rose, Senior Director at Hydro-Québec. “We are proud to partner with the Queens Chamber of Commerce to support students as they prepare for careers that will shape a more sustainable future for New York City and beyond.”
As the borough where the CHPE project terminates, Queens has become a central hub in the city’s clean energy landscape. The Student Workforce Development Program was created to ensure local students have direct access to the training, professional development, and industry connections needed to participate in the emerging green economy.
Held at the Patio Room in Queens College’s Dining Hall, the culminating event brought together students, educators, employers, and community leaders for certificate presentations, networking opportunities, and remarks from program leaders and industry stakeholders. Ten standout students from the program will also go on to internships with sustainability-focused companies, helping launch the next generation of green workforce talent.

​​​Press release available for download, below.

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