New Buildings Institute’s Next Gen program demonstrates that targeted, equity-centered workforce development is essential to meeting the growing demand for clean energy talent. Next Gen is designed to address current industry gaps by preparing emerging leaders from underrepresented backgrounds with the skills, networks, and confidence needed to enter and thrive as professionals in the clean energy and green building fields. The program’s impact is clear: most participants entered with little familiarity with clean energy or green building concepts, yet 100% of the surveyed alumni remain interested or involved in the field after completing the program and the vast majority are actively pursuing internships or jobs in the sector. Students consistently cite the program as a transformative experience that expanded their understanding of careers in the field and strengthened their professional readiness. Mentors also report high satisfaction, emphasizing the value of relationship-building and the program’s inclusive approach.

Thank you to our partners and sponsors over the past four years.