Green Jobs Council NJ BRIDGE Initiative Grant

A $5 million state grant from the Green Jobs Council to support innovative approaches to building and supporting a diverse, inclusive green workforce in New Jersey.

Award Details:

• Funder: Governor's Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy (OCAGE) in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
• Total Funding: $5 million across multiple recipients
• Announcement Date: March 28, 2023
• Award Recipient: Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters received a portion of this funding

Geographic Scope: New Jersey

Focus Areas:

• Building diverse, inclusive green workforce
• Offshore wind industry training and development
• Supporting clean energy goals
• Environmental justice and social equity

Purpose of EAS Carpenters' Award:
The grant will be utilized to expand the Carpenter Apprentice Readiness Program (CARP) to prepare a large talent pool of diverse workers for offshore wind jobs, with focus on:

• Recruitment in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
• Pre-apprenticeship training for underrepresented populations
• Soft skills and professionalism development
• Construction industry overview and training
• Exposure to workers who may not have considered trades as career path

Leadership Quotes:

• First Lady Tammy Murphy (Honorary Chair, Council on the Green Economy): Recognized recipients for catalyzing successful models to expand green economy opportunities
• Jane Cohen (Executive Director, Council on the Green Economy): Emphasized importance of prioritizing opportunities for underserved communities
• Robert Asaro-Angelo (Commissioner, NJ Department of Labor): Highlighted New Jersey's leadership in green economy and need for strong, diverse workforce

Infrastructure Investments by EAS Carpenters:

• Expanded Infrastructure, Piledriving, and Offshore Wind Training Facility in Hammonton, NJ
• New Commercial Dive School in Sicklerville, NJ

Contact Information:

• Rob Smith, Executive Training Director
• Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical College
• Website: eascarpenters.org