The City of Springfield Department of Workforce Development has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to continue and expand the Green for Greene environmental job training program.
“We are incredibly grateful to receive this $500,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to support our Green for Greene environmental job training program. Nationally as well as regionally, demand for a skilled workforce has risen. This program provides participants the opportunity to become a part of the growing supply of skilled workers. We are excited about our continued partnership with the EPA,” said Maurice Jones, Deputy City Manager of the City of Springfield.
With the increased funding, Green for Greene will offer expanded certifications tied to environmental-related jobs. Participants will now have the option of two credential tracks based on their career goals. At the conclusion of each cohort a job fair will be held to connect graduates with employers.
“We will now be able to offer evening classes in addition to daytime classes to support the schedules of individuals who are already in the workforce but want to upskill. This allows the flexibility to be able to work while earning credentials that lead to a higher paying job,” said Ericka Schmeeckle, Interim Director of Workforce Development.
The department has previously received four rounds of EPA funding in the amount of $200,000 per round. In addition to the 13 certifications currently offered, the program will now expand to offer a CDL with Hazmat Endorsement.
To apply for this FREE training opportunity or for more information, visit www.springfieldmo.gov/greenforgreene or call the Missouri Job Center at 417-887-4343.