August 2026 Newsletter: Edition 2

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CEWD has updated Energy Industry Fundamentals (EIF) 2.0, our free, industry-recognized credential program designed to introduce learners to careers across the energy sector.

Recent enhancements align the curriculum with the Energy & Natural Resources (ENR) Career Cluster and incorporate emerging topics such as data centers to reflect today’s evolving workforce needs. Available in both English and Spanish, EIF 2.0 helps students and career changers explore energy careers while also serving as a valuable onboarding and workforce development resource for energy employers.

CEWD’s Sara Vander Zanden recently joined industry leaders at the U.S. Women in Nuclear National Conference, hosted by the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), to discuss the workforce needed to support the continued growth of nuclear energy. With the nuclear workforce projected to reach 375,000 workers by 2050, the conversation focused on the urgent need to strengthen talent pipelines and expand opportunities across the industry.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of attracting and retaining more women in energy careers, recognizing that meeting future workforce demand will require engaging a broader range of talent.

The Power Sector’s New Constraint Isn’t Demand—It’s Everything Else
August 3, 2026
As electricity demand continues to rise, workforce shortages, equipment availability, and permitting challenges are emerging as major constraints across the power sector. The article cites CEWD research, noting that 56% of the utility workforce has fewer than 10 years of service as the industry works to replace retiring talent.

Nvidia CEO Predicts a Massive AI Infrastructure Boom. Skilled Trade Workers Could See Six-Figure Opportunities
August 3, 2026
NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang predicts continued growth in AI infrastructure development, creating strong demand for electricians, plumbers, construction workers, and other skilled trades. The article highlights how large-scale infrastructure investment is expanding opportunities across technical and trades careers.

Gen Z Is Ditching the Office for Skilled Trades. The Salaries May Surprise You
August 4, 2026
A recent survey found that 60% of Gen Z Americans are considering skilled trades careers, driven by concerns about college costs and growing awareness of high-demand career opportunities. Roles such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians continue to offer strong wages and long-term career potential.

National Initiative To Scale Work-Based Learning At Community Colleges
August 6, 2026
A new initiative from New America and the Association of Community College Trustees is helping community colleges expand internships, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities. The effort focuses on strengthening employer partnerships and creating clearer pathways from education to high-demand careers.

Trump to announce $180 million to boost mining education
August 7, 2026
More than $180 million is being directed toward mining and critical minerals education and workforce development programs. The investment includes support for universities, community colleges, trade schools, and industry partnerships aimed at strengthening talent pipelines for critical infrastructure sectors.

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