New Program At CCRI Pushes Wind Jobs

Community College of Rhode Island is offering a new wind energy training certificate program.

Governor Dan McKee's office says the CCRI campus in Lincoln will host the training program for workers engaged in the construction and operation of offshore wind farms.

It's being supported by a million dollars from the planned Eversource-Orsted Revolution Wind farm.

“Rhode Island has momentum, and that is evident by this major workforce development initiative – it is a true collaboration between higher education, labor, and the workforce,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Our State has a historic, once-in-a-generation opportunity before us to capitalize on its position as the leader in wind and renewable energy, creating good-paying jobs and protecting Rhode Island's future, while being well-positioned to lead the way in fighting the climate crisis.”

“Rhode Island workers helped launch America’s offshore wind industry. Now, with this major initiative, we’re partnering with the Rhode Island building trades and state leaders in higher ed and workforce development to ensure Rhode Islanders have the training and skills they need to help build the state’s clean energy future,” said David Hardy, Chief Executive Officer of Ørsted Offshore North America.

McKee says the course offers a chance for good-paying jobs while protecting the state's future, and leading the way in the fight against the climate change crisis.

(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)