As of November 2023, the labor landscape continues to reveal a compelling yet challenging scenario. The Bureau of Labor Statistics underscores a national surplus of 10.7 million available jobs, a staggering contrast to the 6.1 million positions currently filled. This discrepancy, often attributed to the “skills gap,” amplifies the critical need for a skilled workforce aligned with evolving economic trends, particularly in fields related to climate solutions and advancing technologies.

Our built environment is a massive contributor to the climate crisis through its impacts on the atmosphere and broader ecosystems. In terms of energy, buildings consume about 40% of all electricity. This week, we are focusing on low-energy, low-impact building professionals.

In 2021, the solar energy sector employed nearly 334,000 workers. Of these jobs, over half were in the construction industry. 93% of employers in the construction sub-sector of solar reported difficulty hiring employees, many citing a labor shortage — meaning there is ample opportunity for those interested in entering the industry.