Trade Ally Technical Assistance Research Project

Environmental & Economic Research and Development Program Trade Ally Technical Assistance Research Project

About the Research Project

The Trade Ally Technical Assistance Research Project explored how Focus on Energy could support a stronger, more skilled energy efficiency workforce through targeted training resources. Feedback from Trade Allies, training providers, apprenticeship sponsors, and workforce development programs helped shape recommendations for a potential technical assistance program.

This project builds off key findings from the “Empowering Trade Allies for Building Efficiency and Electrification Research” study conducted by the MREA in 2024.

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

Research Objectives:

Conduct an assessment of training programs offered by Trade Allies and Training Providers to identify current offerings, delivery models, and gaps.
Identify the equipment, materials, and support most valued by Training Providers; evaluate how existing gaps affect training quality and workforce readiness; and determine how to better align resources with broader industry needs and Focus on Energy awareness goals.
Design a market-responsive training and technical assistance model complementing existing programs, supports diverse provider participation, and strengthens the energy efficiency workforce.

Key Findings

Trade Allies and training providers identified key opportunities to grow Trade Ally capacity in three areas: training, financial support, and technical assistance. Nineteen recommendations emerged from interviews with Trade Allies and training providers; five are highlighted below.

Practical and Applied Training: Contractors need more specialized, in-depth training courses to fill gaps in existing industry offerings.
Sales and Marketing: Offering training and/or marketing toolkits helps sales teams effectively communicate the value of energy efficiency to customers.
Meet Trade Allies Where They Are: Investing in local, hands-on training reduces travel and limits work disruptions.
Financial Support: Providing stipends for Trade Ally training, instructor support, Trade Ally training equipment or training provider equipment limits cost barriers to ongoing professional development.
One Stop Resource: Creating a centralized location to find information on training, technical resources for emerging products, and contacts for Focus representatives supports recruitment and workforce expansion efforts.

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