The Workforce Intelligence Network (WIN) is proud to announce a new initiative designed to prepare Michigan and Ohio workers for careers in the emerging hydrogen economy. Led by the University of Toledo (UToledo) and supported by $3 million in congressionally directed funding through the U.S. Department of Energy, this project will focus on training regional workers in the safe use of hydrogen production. The initiative includes the development of specialized curricula, and program implementation.
“I worked to secure this $3 million award to advance the study of advanced hydrogen technologies at The University of Toledo, Owens Community College, Case Western Reserve University, Cuyahoga Community College, Lorain County Community College and Northwest State Community College in partnership with the Workforce Intelligence Network and the Ohio Aerospace Institute,” said U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, who represents Ohio’s Ninth Congressional District and is the ranking member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development.
WIN and UToledo partner institutions are currently completing an intensive information-gathering process, mapping the current hydrogen ecosystem and identifying the skills and trades required to support the hydrogen workforce. These activities will provide insight for curriculum development at numerous secondary education institutions in the Midwest, ensuring the region's workforce is well-equipped to meet the unique application of hydrogen.
WIN Economic Research Analysts are conducting a social network analysis survey to map the relationships and interactions among key stakeholders in the hydrogen economy, providing a thorough understanding of the ecosystem. WIN will also publish a second survey focusing on occupational skills needs and competencies required by employers to shape the curriculum development process. Employers and organizations involved in the hydrogen economy are encouraged to visit WINintelligence.org/hydrogen to participate in the survey and learn more.
“Transitioning to a hydrogen-based economy will require a trained workforce from trade and technical levels through advanced engineering graduates. I am proud to see The University of Toledo leading the way in training the next generation to adapt to cutting-edge innovation and technology. This will help to provide good paying jobs for future generations of workers in northwest Ohio and across our nation,” expressed Kaptur.
“As an increasingly attractive clean energy source, hydrogen has the potential to transform industries ranging from transportation to energy production,” said UToledo’s Dr. Mark Mason. “Our initiative will support the significant investments in this emerging economy by equipping the workforce for new and existing jobs.”
This initiative represents a major step towards building a sustainable and resilient workforce that can thrive in the hydrogen economy. By collaborating with industry leaders, educational institutions, and community partners, the WIN Board of Directors is committed to driving economic growth and innovation in Michigan and Ohio. The WIN Board is made up of nine community colleges and seven Michigan Works! agencies in Southeast Michigan.
Michele Ureste, Executive Director of WIN, emphasized the importance of this initiative, "Understanding and mapping the hydrogen economy is crucial for the future of our workforce. By identifying the needs of employers and developing targeted educational programs, we can ensure that our region remains at the forefront of this transformative industry."
The Department of Energy (DOE) has partnered with a coalition of universities, community colleges, and research organizations to establish workforce development, training, and certification programs that will provide the skilled workers needed for the expanding hydrogen economy in northern Ohio and southern Michigan (DOE Award Number: DE‐EE0010706).
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