JVS is excited to announce a new collaboration with Generac Holdings Inc. (NYSE – GNRC) and the California Water Association to develop workforce training and career opportunities in California’s water utility sector over the next five years. This innovative collaboration will support the deployment of clean energy storage systems at water utilities across California while creating meaningful career pathways for community members. This collaboration is part of a broader Department of Energy initiative, the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, which aims to enhance grid reliability and infrastructure resilience while advancing clean energy goals. Generac was selected for a GRIP award to support this project in October 2024.
JVS will counsel on the development of comprehensive workforce training programs focused on the intersection of water infrastructure and clean energy technology. The initiative includes work-based learning modules developed in collaboration with local community colleges and the creation of paid internship opportunities at the participating water utilities throughout the state. These internships also may lead to full-time employment positions.
“This partnership exemplifies JVS’s commitment to creating pathways to opportunity while supporting California’s clean energy future,” says Lisa Countryman-Quiroz, Chief Executive Officer of JVS. “By bridging the gap between workforce development and sustainable infrastructure, we’re not just creating jobs – we’re building innovative careers that will strengthen both our communities and our environment.”
This initiative builds upon JVS’s extensive experience in the utilities sector and represents a unique opportunity to address multiple community needs simultaneously. Through the initiative, JVS will support water utilities’ transition to cleaner, more reliable energy systems, directly contributing to California’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2025. This work not only advances the state’s climate objectives but also creates quality jobs and career opportunities for residents of the communities these utilities serve.
The program will specifically focus on recruiting participants from disinvested communities, providing them with the skills and training needed to succeed in the emerging “Water-Energy Nexus” field.
The initiative includes:
-Development of specialized curriculum in partnership with local community colleges
-Creation of internship positions at participating water utilities throughout the state
-Technical training on advanced energy storage systems and grid management
-Career pathway development leading to permanent positions
Through this program, JVS continues its commitment to creating economic opportunity through workforce development while supporting California’s transition to sustainable infrastructure and ensuring that all communities have uninterrupted access to affordable energy.
