Attentive Energy Two, in collaboration with the New Jersey Council of County Colleges, sponsored day passes for 50 students and administrators from community colleges across New Jersey to attend the American Clean Power's Offshore WINDPOWER conference. This event took place from October 28-30 in Atlantic City, gathering thousands of business leaders, developers, government officials, and other stakeholders to discuss the offshore wind industry's successes and challenges.
On October 30, specific activities were organized for community college students and faculty. These included an overview of the Attentive Energy Two project, a career roundtable with industry experts, and networking opportunities with supply chain providers. Participants represented all 18 community colleges in the state.
Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, highlighted the importance of preparing future workers for jobs in this rapidly growing industry. "Offshore wind is a rapidly growing industry in the state and our next generation of workers must be equipped with the skills to take on the good-paying jobs it’s poised to create," he stated.
Damian Bednarz, managing director of Attentive Energy, emphasized their commitment to fostering inclusivity and growth within New Jersey's offshore wind sector. He noted their partnership with NJ Council of County Colleges as an example of supporting local workforce development.
Anne Reynolds from the American Clean Power Association commented on Attentive Energy's role in strengthening New Jersey's leadership in clean energy. "Attentive Energy’s dedication to New Jersey’s community college students underscores the need to build a robust offshore wind workforce as this industry grows," she said.
Beyond participating in conferences, Attentive Energy Two is launching an initiative called OSW Workforce Pathways and Skills Collaborative with NJCCC. This aims to establish a strong offshore wind network for community colleges by providing funds for developing related academic programs and partnerships between higher education institutions and high schools.
Catherine Starghill from NJCCC expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration: “We are thrilled to partner with Attentive Energy Two on this unprecedented opportunity... ensuring that New Jersey remains a leader in this vital sector.”
Attentive Energy Two is part of an offshore wind project aimed at helping New Jersey achieve its renewable energy targets. Located approximately 42 miles from its nearest point in New Jersey, it is expected to power over 650,000 homes with clean energy through a joint venture between TotalEnergies and Corio Generation.
