Overview
A key challenge for community colleges in meeting the demand for green jobs involves aligning training in these fields to the opportunities and demands of a green economy. Equally important, community colleges must also ensure that the benefits of a green economy are distributed equitably and do not leave some people or communities behind. However, little is known about the types of programs community colleges are offering that prepare students for jobs in the green economy or how many community college students complete educational pathways linked to the growing green economy.
To address these gaps, the Community College Research Center (CCRC) and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville propose a one-year landscape study of green training programs at U.S. community colleges. The study will analyze community college students’ entry to and completion of educational pathways in fields of study linked to green economy occupations. The project will result in products and activities designed to share what we are learning and engage the field, including written and video blogs, a policy brief, and online webinars and conference presentations designed for policymakers and practitioners.
Key Objectives
This project will provide quantitative analyses of student community college educational pathway completions in fields of study linked to green economy occupations. The analysis will be primarily descriptive and will be the first of its kind to report national level statistics in response to questions such as how many community college students earn awards linked to green sector labor markets, how has completion in these programs changed over time, and how awards vary by demographic, regional, and economic characteristics. Our analyses will include credentials awarded in emerging “green” occupations (such as solar panel installation) as well as in traditional fields that may have increased demand for workers in the green economy (such as electrical technician).
Partners and Stakeholders
Community College Research Center
The Community College Research Center at Teachers College, Columbia University has been a leader in the field of community college research and reform for over 25 years. Their work provides a foundation for innovations in policy and practice that help give every community college student the best chance of success.
FUNDING INFORMATION
JPMorgan Chase is committed to creating a more inclusive and stronger economy through various philanthropic and community-focused initiatives. Their approach centers on five key areas:
- Business Growth and Entrepreneurship: Investing in efforts that support entrepreneurship and uplift communities.
- Careers and Skills: Equipping job-seekers with the tools and skills they need to thrive in a growing economy.
- Community Development: Fostering strong communities through investments, local partnerships, and philanthropic commitments.
- Environmental Sustainability: Promoting long-term solutions for a more sustainable future.
- Financial Health and Wealth Creation: Supporting the development of fintech solutions and coaching programs to help people save, pay down debt, and build wealth.
Additionally, JPMorgan Chase has made significant commitments to racial equity, including a $30 billion initiative to close the racial wealth gap and advance economic inclusion among historically underserved communities. They also focus on sustainable development, aiming to help clients navigate the challenges of a low-carbon transition and promote a more sustainable future.
Their impact is evident in various projects, such as providing protective equipment to firefighters globally, expanding healthcare access in rural communities, and supporting economic growth through infrastructure projects.
