The MREA oversaw this research which dove into what resources are needed to facilitate a more robust and skilled workforce to support delivery of energy efficient products and services. The MREA engaged both previously involved and now Focus on Energy Trade Allies, technical college training programs, independent training programs, apprenticeship sponsors, and workforce development programs, in interviews to solicit feedback on specific technical assistance program design. After interviews were completed, the MREA recommended a sequence of training that is market responsive, complimentary, and supports employer sponsored training, manufacturer training, credentialling, and continuing education. 

Contributor: Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA)
Project Timeline: March 2025 – August 2025

Research Objectives
Research objectives included engaging stakeholders in feedback sessions and interviews to inform the components of a workforce development strategy:

• Learn how Training Providers and Trade Allies currently offer training and learn what resources they need to successfully support the energy efficiency workforce and Focus on Energy programs.
• Define how Training Providers and Trade Allies would best engage in a Technical Assistance Process.
• Evaluate a scope and sequence of training that is market responsive, complimentary, and supports employer sponsored training, manufacturer training, credentialling, and continuing education.
• Outline a technical assistance model that supports workforce training and increases the capacity of businesses providing home and business energy efficiency and electrification services.

Key Findings

In Wisconsin, Focus on Energy has the potential to foster a more robust and skilled workforce that can deliver quality energy efficient products to Focus on Energy customers, helping Wisconsin achieve its energy efficiency goals. Trade Allies’ and training providers’ shared perspectives on areas that provide opportunities to increase Trade Ally capacity, which were divided into three categories: training, financial support, and technical assistance. Nineteen key recommendations were derived from Trade Ally and training provider interviews, five of which are provided below:

• Practical and Applied Training: Contractors need more specialized, in-depth training courses that fill gaps in existing industry offerings.
• Sales and Marketing: Offer training and/or marketing toolkits that help sales teams effectively communicate the value of energy efficiency to customers.
• Meet Trade Allies Where They Are: Reduce travel needs by investing in regional, on-site, and hands-on instructional sessions that are tailored by trade type and sized to minimize work disruption.  
• Financial Support: Provide stipends for Trade Ally training, instructor support, Trade Ally training equipment or training provider equipment.  
• One Stop Resource: Create a centralized location to find information on trainings, technical resources for emerging products, and contacts for Focus representatives.

 The full report can be read here: Trade Ally Technical Assistance Research Final Report

Questions?

Contact the Future Focus team with questions at futurefocus@focusonenergy.com