Mobilizing Workforce Transformation with Sector Networks: Climate Week NYC 2024

As the world transitions to a green economy, the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce has never been more critical. To address this need, JobsFirstNYC initiated the formation of Sector Networks in 2020. Focused on the green economy, healthcare, and tech, the Networks are a coalition of leading nonprofit workforce development agencies, community colleges, and employers collaborating to build an industry-aligned workforce. By focusing on these key sectors of the labor market, the Networks accomplish this by expanding training and employment opportunities, strengthening employer relations, and tailoring training programs to meet evolving market demands.

Sector Networks are building a future-ready workforce. As they deepen and expand efforts, their collaboration with City initiatives and each other takes on even greater significance. And just as this year’s Climate Week NYC themes recognize the intersection of climate change, health, and technology—exploring the health impacts of climate change as well as “the latest innovations and technologies being used to mitigate the consequences climate change has on all our lives”—JobsFirstNYC convened its three Networks together for a cross-sector session and tour of the Brooklyn Army Terminal (BAT), home to the burgeoning Climate Innovation Hub.

Sitting on the edge of Sunset Park, the BAT boasts waterfront views, close proximity to ferries and major transit hubs, within a vibrant, diverse community. Initially an army base, the BAT is being transformed into a thriving manufacturing and local business district. Thanks to the partnership of NYC Economic Development Corporation co-developer of the Green Economy Action Plan, a presentation and private tour of this seminal space was arranged.

Exploring the Promise of the Climate Innovation Hub: Building a Greener NYC

A central initiative of New York City’s Green Economy Action Plan, the $100 Million Climate Innovation Hub (CIH) at the BAT will occupy 112,000 square feet and serve as a world-class space for business development, research commercialization, and workforce training. Over the next decade, the CIH is set to support 150 startups and offer local community members the opportunity to acquire and refine skills in emerging climate technologies. With this development underway, JobFirstNYC’s Green Economy Network (GEN) is working to align with the City’s commitment to support 5,000 new permanent jobs, educate and train 2,100 New Yorkers, and generate $55 billion of economic impact all contributing to job growth within the BAT and CIH.

While the Climate Innovation Hub begins to take shape, the role of the GEN becomes increasingly vital in ensuring the success of this initiative. GEN is a partnership between workforce development agencies, community-based organizations, and employers that strives to strengthen collaboration among nonprofits, colleges, and employers to improve skills training, leverage knowledge and resources, and increase access to high-quality, in-demand jobs in the green economy. GEN partners are experts in the green field – so they are uniquely positioned to have a direct impact at the Climate Innovation Hub.

GEN plays a crucial role in this landscape. As Shakira Hart, GEN Co-Chair and Senior Director of Community Engagement at Solar One, emphasized, “The gathering at the Climate Innovation Hub marked a key moment for recognizing the synergies between us. By merging our green economy expertise with the innovative and entrepreneurial environment at BAT, we’re positioned to drive meaningful, lasting impact.”

While GEN is a key player, the Tech and Healthcare Sector Networks are also essential in fostering a more sustainable and diverse workforce. Daniel Agosto, Managing Director of Workforce at Phipps Neighborhoods, and a member of the Healthcare Sector Network noted, “This unique opportunity to collectively gather and work highlights the needs and interconnectedness of our sectors. When we collaborate, we challenge each other to create innovative strategies that can transform how we approach workforce development in healthcare and beyond.”

Engaging Workforce Development Leaders and Climate Innovators at the Brooklyn Army Terminal

To strengthen the connection with workforce development leaders, JobsFirstNYC partnered with the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) for a personalized tour and meeting space to hold a Sector Network convening – a chance to bring together the City’s leading experts in sustainable workforce development. Guided by Christine Paglialunga, Executive Director of Sunset Park and Vice President of Asset Management at NYCEDC, Sector Networks partners had the unique opportunity to explore the historic BAT and visit iconic locations such as the Atrium and local businesses – a testament to the vibrant mix of innovation and entrepreneurship at BAT.

During an interactive session on Green Career Pathways, led by Yasmeen Khan, GEN Co-Chair and Program Director at CUNY Building Performance Lab, participants engaged in meaningful discussions about aligning all Sector Networks with the growing green economy. Annie Martinez, Growth Strategy Lead at Year Up United and member of the Tech Sector Network shared her enthusiasm: “The potential for cross-sector collaboration is immense. We can redefine career pathways in tech that align with green and healthcare initiatives, creating more and better opportunities for young adults.”

Representatives from each Network shared post-launch successes and impact, celebrating the progress made while looking ahead to the next phase of growth and opportunity.

Highlights of Sector Networks’ impacts include:

The Green Economy Network’s young adult survey garnered important lessons around the landscape of knowledge and interest in the green economy, and the Green Economy Network Systems Map provides a one-stop view of the City’s expanding Green sector.
The Healthcare Sector Network hosted an inaugural Careers in Care Expo, showcasing healthcare pathways and interactive training opportunities to dozens of young adults.
The Tech Sector Network planned and executed their first Cross-Network Referral event, where partners collaborated on a “no wrong-door” approach to match candidates on waiting lists to right fit trainings.

A Catalyst for Change: Key Takeaways from Sector Network Collaboration and Climate Innovation Exploration

Participants walked away with a richer understanding of each other’s work and the collective impact they can achieve.

There are numerous opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, based on the diverse expertise in workforce development.
Green Economy Network members are motivated to solidify their presence in the Climate Innovation Hub, leaving with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to engage in this revolutionary initiative.
Sector Networks members left with a deeper understanding of each other’s work and impact within their respective sectors, recognizing that there is always room to evolve and grow together.

JobsFirstNYC’s Sector Networks are catalysts for bold action, innovation, and collaboration, demonstrating that it truly takes a village. Keri Faulhaber, Senior Vice President at JobsFirstNYC summarized the sentiment well: “The real takeaway is that we are stronger together – when we share knowledge, collaborate on solutions, and leverage opportunities to build a sustainable and diverse workforce. JobsFirstNYC Sector Networks open doors to effective outside-the-box solutions in workforce development.”

The August 2024 convening at the BAT and Climate Innovation Hub illuminated the possibilities for the Green Economy Network, Healthcare Sector Network, and Tech Sector Network in driving sustainable development forward. Partners were inspired by each Network’s unique impacts, and identified ways to build a dynamic, multi-dimensional workforce ready to thrive in jobs now and in the future.

Want to get involved in JobsFirstNYC Sector Networks? Contact mdarby@jobsfirstnyc.org.