Center for Energy Workforce Development Supports Bipartisan House Resolution to Recognize Careers in Energy Week
Measure highlights the skilled energy workforce and spotlights career pathways during Careers in Energy Week, October 19-23, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. – October 20, 2026
The Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD), a nonprofit consortium committed to the development of a highly skilled energy workforce, supports the Careers in Energy Week resolution introduced by a group of bipartisan U.S. House of Representatives members. The resolution was led by Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), who was joined by Reps. Troy Carter (D-La.), Dan Meuser (R-Pa.), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pa.), Marc Veasey (D-TX), and Thomas Kean Jr. (R-N.J.).
Occurring annually in October, Careers in Energy Week raises awareness for energy career pathways and the diverse talent needed to keep homes, businesses, and critical industries functioning. Expanding a skilled and innovative workforce is essential to maintaining the nation’s increasing energy infrastructure and growing demand for energy.
“The U.S. is a global leader in energy production, and our Careers in Energy Week resolution recognizes and honors the millions of individuals who work to deliver safe and reliable energy and highlights the rewarding career opportunities available for students and adult learners,” Rep. Thompson said.
“Energy jobs are critical to South Texas and our economy,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Our oil and natural gas workers help provide the energy that families and businesses rely on every day. As our energy industry grows and new technologies develop, we need to make sure we have the workforce to support it. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in recognizing these workers during Careers in Energy Week and highlighting the opportunities available to the next generation. We must continue supporting workforce training programs that prepare people for good-paying, long-term careers in energy.”
“Reliable energy is essential for our economy and our communities, and access to that energy depends on a skilled workforce. I am pleased to cosponsor this resolution and help raise awareness of energy careers, supporting all types of energy production, lowering costs, and strengthening our domestic energy sources,” said Rep. Kean.
“We need more people trained and ready to step into these in-demand energy roles,” said Rep. Veasey. “By coming together on this resolution, we can show Texans and all Americans alike that there are opportunities in energy out there. What matters is connecting people to those opportunities and ensuring they have the training to pursue them.”
“The strength of our energy future depends on the people who power it,” said Wade Smith, President, FirstEnergy Utilities. “At FirstEnergy, we care deeply about the customers and communities we serve, and we know delivering safe, reliable service takes all of us working together. Careers in Energy Week is an opportunity to recognize the skilled professionals who make that possible while opening pathways for the next generation to learn, grow and build rewarding careers in our industry. We appreciate the bipartisan recognition of these essential careers and the people who power our communities every day.”
“Pennsylvania’s rural electric cooperatives are powered by a dedicated workforce committed to ensuring safe, reliable and affordable power. We commend Chairman Thompson for leading our Commonwealth and our nation in recognizing the importance of these jobs and raising awareness during “Careers in Energy Week.” These professionals are vital to our communities because they keep the lights on for all of us – and we’re looking to the next generation to learn these trades and do the same,” said Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association and Allegheny Electric Cooperative President and CEO Steve Brame.
“Careers in Energy Week recognizes energy professionals – those who keep our country running – while also highlighting the generational need to recruit people to and prepare them for energy careers. In-demand roles span the skilled trades, engineering, technology and business operations. This observational week is a signal for career-ready adults and students to explore dynamic energy careers that are essential to our communities, our economy, national security, and American life,” said Missy Henriksen, CEWD’s Executive Director.
As the demand for energy resources grows, CEWD continues to support the development and expansion of the energy workforce. Through partnerships and initiatives like Get Into Energy, the stability, strong pay, and room for growth in these careers has reached a new demographic of job seekers, students, educators, employers, and others. With an expansive set of paths to choose from, CEWD provides education and helps organizations join together to power the future.
Careers in Energy Week has been led by CEWD since 2010 and is supported by its member associations: American Clean Power Association, American Gas Association, American Petroleum Institute, American Public Gas Association, American Public Power Association, Association of Energy Services Professionals, Edison Electric Institute, Electric Power Research Institute, The Hydropower Foundation, INGAA Foundation, Electric Power Research Institute, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Nuclear Energy Institute, The Pipe Line Contractors Association, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and North America’s Building Trade Unions.
To learn more about careers in the energy sector, visit GetIntoEnergy.org.
About the Center for Energy Workforce Development
The Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD) is a nonprofit consortium of energy employers, their associations, labor partners, and others committed to the development of a skilled energy workforce. To learn more, visit www.CEWD.org or www.GetIntoEnergy.org.