Accelerating D.C.’s Economic Development and Energy Careers

Challenge

Washington, DC area building owners and property managers need to improve their buildings’ energy efficiency to reach the goals identified in the Sustainable DC 2.0 Plan. One of the greatest challenges to reaching this goal is having the human capital needed to support decarbonization objectives.

Many individuals, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups, find it challenging to understand and access these careers. A recent survey of the GED audience—comprising 60% people of color—revealed that while 90% are interested in energy jobs, only 5% understand which opportunities are relevant to them.

Solution

To bridge this gap, Julius collaborated with the Washington, D.C. Department of Energy and theEnvironment (DOEE) and the Building Innovation Hub to create the D.C. Green Buildings Career Map. This dynamic, interactive tool is tailored to the needs of the D.C. metropolitan area, helps users visualize their potential within the energy industry, understand career options that align with their interests, and gain visibility into the skills and steps required to pursue these careers. Additionally, the map serves as a central resource hub, helping job seekers navigate and access clean energy training and resources in a transient region.

Impact

The DOEE's commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future is exemplified through this initiative, which focuses on creating equitable career opportunities in energy efficiency and high-performing buildings for D.C. residents. By addressing the industry's diversity gap—where over 80% of energy efficiency professionals in D.C. belong to a single ethnicity, and only 28% are women—this project aims to build a more diverse and inclusive workforce, fostering economic growth and sustainability in the region. As a next step, Julius plans to integrate self-service features and develop a one-stop-shop for career path information, training opportunities, and direct job applications.