On August 5, Sustainable Pittsburgh partnered with the Readiness Institute at Penn State for a convening of school counselors, educators, and workforce development professionals at the Franco Harris Pittsburgh Center at Penn State. The event, Unlocking Pathways to a Clean Energy Future, introduced attendees to Sustainable Pittsburgh’s new Future Energy Career Maps, which focus on job pathways in the construction and advanced manufacturing sectors.
This targeted session offered a unique opportunity to gather real-time feedback from professionals who work with students and jobseekers. Developed as a part of Sustainable Pittsburgh’s Clean Energy Workforce Roundtable, the interactive maps aim to expand access, equity and awareness in the region’s clean energy workforce pipeline–encouraging individuals to pursue meaningful, well-paying careers in Southwestern Pennsylvania’s growing clean energy economy.
Sustainable Pittsburgh’s John Ukenye, senior director of policy and strategic initiatives, co-led the session alongside Executive Director Bhavini Patel. They shared the vision behind the maps and emphasized how local talent can connect to regional opportunities in these emerging fields. They also highlighted the critical role of educators in guiding students to consider careers that advance economic mobility while supporting a resilient, sustainable future.
Greg Blair and Shakir Cannon-Moye,vice presidents at Julius Education, presented the design and technical features of the platform. They facilitated a dynamic conversation with attendees, who explored how the maps can support classroom learning, counseling conversations, and career planning programs.
Educators appreciated the accessible design and real-world relevance of the maps. Many noted its value in helping students connect interests—such as hands-on work, job stability, or climate solutions—with real-life roles, training pathways, and advancement opportunities. The discussion sparked practical ideas for integrating the maps into daily practice.
Sustainable Pittsburgh is committed to incorporating this feedback to further refine the Career Maps and build partnerships that support local educators in preparing the region’s future clean energy workforce. The maps represent one component of a broader strategy to align education, industry and community around an equitable and sustainable economic transition.