The clean energy and green buildings industry is growing fast, but the workforce needed to sustain that growth isn’t keeping up. Moreover, long-standing equity gaps continue to limit who has access to careers in the sector. NBI is working to address these issues through our Next Gen program.
What Is Next Gen?
Next Gen offers free career preparation opportunities for college students who are interested in pursuing a future in the green building and clean energy industries. Designed to expand access and opportunity, the program prioritizes students from communities historically underrepresented in the sector. Participants are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and connections they need to enter and thrive in the industry, while organizations cultivate teams of talented, diverse leaders.
By supporting women, students of color, and other underrepresented groups, Next Gen fosters a new generation of leaders who will bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and impact to clean energy organizations.
“The program opened doors for me and gave me tools to grow as a future clean energy leader.”
— Ryan Pham, 2024-2025 Next Gen participant
Why Next Gen Matters: A Growing Workforce Gap
The demand for clean energy talent is rising fast. In 2024, clean energy jobs grew by nearly 12%, outpacing overall U.S. job market growth by four percentage points. Yet at the same time, 74% of employers report difficulty finding qualified candidates in professional and business services.
Many students are eager to enter the field but lack access to critical career support such as:
- Clear information about clean energy professions
- Mentorship and professional networks
- Hands-on experience and certifications
- Peer support and career pathways
Next Gen bridges that gap. In fact, in a 2025 survey of program alumni, 72% of participants reported feeling more prepared to pursue internships, research opportunities, or jobs after completing the program.
Advancing Equity in the Clean Energy Workforce
The clean energy and buildings sector continues to lack diversity. Only 18% of building industry professionals identify as people of color, and just 31% identify as female. Yet research shows that diverse organizations see 12% higher performance and retention.
“I really like the diversity focus. I feel like that is not talked about that much in the building industry.”
— Aatith Biswa, Next Gen 2025
By building a more inclusive pipeline of talent, Next Gen helps ensure that electrification efforts, the transition to energy efficiency, and the growth of renewable energy can benefit from a broad range of perspectives and experiences.
A Program with Proven Impact
Since launching in 2021, Next Gen has supported 119 students across four cohorts, prioritizing participants from historically underserved backgrounds. These students represent disciplines including engineering, architecture, construction management, and policy. Among alumni:
- 69% identify as female or non-binary
- 70% identify as people of color or bi-racial
Despite 70% of students entering the program with little or no familiarity with clean energy or green building concepts,
- 100% of surveyed alumni remain interested or involved in clean energy and green building
- 89% are pursuing internships or jobs in the sector
- 72% report feeling more prepared to pursue jobs or research opportunities after participating
These outcomes show what’s possible when students are given access to mentorship, real-world exposure, and professional support they would not receive otherwise.
What Makes Next Gen Work
The 2021-2025 Impact Report highlights several program components that students and mentors consistently value most:
- One-on-one mentorship with experienced clean energy professionals
- Sponsored professional certification (LEED Green Associate, etc.), helping students build credibility and strengthen resumes
- Monthly discussion groups that offer real-world insight into clean energy careers
- Sponsored attendance at NBI’s GTZ Forum, frequently cited as a transformative learning and networking experience
- Informational and mock interviews that build confidence and readiness
Beyond skills and credentials, students point to community and peer connection as one of the program’s greatest strengths.
“I realized that while knowledge is important, building the right relationships can open just as many doors.”
— Ivana Krsteska, Next Gen 2025
Mentors echo this sentiment, highlighting the program’s inclusive approach and the chance to help shape the future workforce.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Impact in 2026 and Beyond
In response to participant feedback and industry needs, Next Gen is moving to a place-based cohort model in 2026, with priority given to students in New York, Oregon, and Washington. This approach will deepen local connections, strengthen mentorship opportunities, and create more meaningful career pathways.
But growing this impact requires support.
Donate to Next Gen TodayRead the Report and Join Us in Shaping the Future of Clean Energy
The Next Gen 2025 Impact Report demonstrates that targeted, equity-centered workforce development is not only effective—it’s necessary for the clean energy transition. By investing in students today, we can ensure more prepared and inclusive clean energy leaders for tomorrow.
Read the Report