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The Obameter

Create job training programs for clean technologies

"Will increase funding for federal workforce training programs and direct these programs to incorporate green technologies training, such as advanced manufacturing and weatherization training, into their efforts to help Americans find and retain stable, high-paying jobs . . . will also create an energy-focused youth jobs program to invest in disconnected and disadvantaged youth. This program will provide youth participants with energy efficiency and environmental service opportunities to improve the energy efficiency of homes and buildings in their communities, while also providing them with practical skills and experience in important career fields of expected high-growth employment. Participants will not only be able to use their training to find new jobs, but also build skills that will help them move up the career ladder over time."

Sources:

"New Energy for America"

Subjects: Environment, Technology, Workers

Updates:

Obama comes through on both parts of this promise

Updated: Friday, January 8th, 2010 | By Catharine Richert

Creating jobs that are also good for the environment was a big part of Barack Obama's campaign platform.
 
It was also a big part of the stimulus package he signed in early 2009. All told, the bill included $500 million to support job creation in the energy efficiency and renewable energy sector. The administration has been busy doling out this grant money to train displaced workers in the areas of home weatherization, hybrid and electric car maintenance and solar panel installation.
 
On Jan. 6, 2010, for instance, the Labor Department announced that $100 million will go to 25 projects around the country.
 
When Obama signed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act in April 2009, he also created the Clean Energy Service Corps. The program will train young people to install solar panels, weatherize homes and conduct energy audits, among other things.
 
The Corporation for National and Community Service runs the new program, and it was given about $1.1 billion in the latest appropriations process. Some portion of that funding is expected to go to the new energy corps, though the corporation hasn't decided exactly how much.
 
So, Obama promised to fund new efforts to train displaced workers and youth to do green jobs, and he's come through on this pledge. So this one earns a Promise Kept.  

Sources:

Associated Press, Government Set to Announce Billions for Green Jobs, Training, May 25, 2009
 
The Los Angeles Times, Labor Department gives nearly $100 million in green-job, by Tiffany Hsu, Jan. 6, 2010
 
 
The Corporation for National and Community Service, Update on FY 2010 National Service Budget, accessed Jan. 8, 2010

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