Workforce development |
Hydropower workforce investment
The US Department of Energy is tackling a critical challenge in the hydropower industry: workforce shortages. A $1 million initiative aims to recruit, train, and empower the next generation of professionals to drive renewable energy forward
THE HYDROPOWER INDUSTRY, a cornerstone of renewable energy in the US, is at a critical juncture. As the nation looks to secure a sustainable energy future, the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO) has announced a significant investment to address an urgent challenge: the industry’s looming workforce gap. With $1 million in funding allocated from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Hydropower Foundation’s workforce development programs are set to lay the groundwork for the next generation of hydropower professionals. This funding initiative reflects the DOE’s commitment to ensuring hydropower remains a reliable and renewable source of energy for homes and businesses. As WPTO Director Matthew Grosso aptly stated: “Realizing [hydropower’s] potential requires paving the way for the next generation of hydropower workers and helping bring new professionals into the industry.”
The workforce challenge Hydropower has long been a dependable pillar of the
US energy landscape, providing clean, efficient, and renewable power for over a century. However, this stalwart industry faces a seismic shift in its workforce. According to the report US Hydropower Workforce: Challenges and Opportunities, more than 25% of today’s hydropower workers are nearing retirement age. This exodus of experienced personnel coincides with growing demand for skilled workers due to expansion in both conventional and pumped storage hydropower infrastructure.
Below: The Water Power Technologies Office recently announced $1 million for hydropower workforce development programs
For an industry built on innovation and expertise, these challenges underscore the urgency to attract, train, and retain a new wave of talent. From engineers and technicians to environmental scientists and operations managers, hydropower needs a workforce capable of navigating the complexities of modern energy production and distribution.
Hydropower Foundation’s role in
workforce development The Hydropower Foundation has been a key player in fostering industry talent through innovative programs and partnerships. With the WPTO’s $1 million in funding, the foundation is poised to expand its efforts, focusing on four critical areas:
1. Engagement with trades and apprenticeship programs Trades and apprenticeships form the backbone of
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the hydropower workforce. By increasing outreach to these programs, the Hydropower Foundation aims to connect individuals with hands-on training opportunities that lead to long-term careers in the industry. From welders to electricians, these skilled workers are essential for maintaining and upgrading hydropower infrastructure.
2. Collaboration with educational institutions Building a robust pipeline of hydropower professionals requires engaging students early in their academic journeys. The foundation plans to work closely with universities, trade schools, community colleges, and other post-secondary institutions to promote careers in hydropower. Particular emphasis will be placed on addressing the need for engineers, project managers, and other specialized roles.
3. Fostering diversity and inclusion An inclusive workforce is essential for the industry’s success. The foundation’s initiatives will actively engage minority-serving institutions and professional organizations representing Black, Hispanic, and Tribal communities. This approach not only broadens the talent pool but also ensures that the benefits of a career in hydropower are accessible to a more diverse array of individuals.
4. Leveraging existing programs The Hydropower Foundation’s established programs, such as Think Tank competitions, Waterpower Clubs, and the Hiring for Hydro initiative, will serve as a foundation for expanded efforts. These programs have a proven track record of connecting students and professionals with industry leaders, fostering innovation, and promoting career pathways in hydropower.
Complementary WPTO initiatives The Hydropower Foundation’s efforts are part of a
broader WPTO strategy to grow the hydropower workforce. The office has developed tools and competitions designed to attract talent and build skills across technical and non-technical disciplines. One such resource is the Hydropower Career Map, an interactive guide that outlines potential career trajectories in the industry. The map helps students and workers identify roles that match their skills and interests, whether they’re inclined toward engineering, environmental stewardship, or operational leadership.
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