Long Beach Clean Cities has partnered on several workforce development projects with California State University, Los Angeles. We would like to congratulate Cal State LA, as it is one of the 12 universities chosen across the nation to take part in the Battery Workforce Challenge. This groundbreaking initiative, launched by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Stellantis, aims to advance electric vehicle (EV) technology and combat climate change. The challenge focuses on training the next generation of engineers, technicians, and workers to meet the growing demand for a domestic EV and battery workforce. Cal State LA’s team secured over $500,000 in funding from sponsors, including the Sikand SITI-Center and the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology (ECST). Led by professors from various disciplines, the team will design, build, and test a lithium battery pack for EVs. This hands-on experience will prepare Cal State LA students for success in the rapidly expanding EV sector¹.

Introducing Charging Smart, Our New Electric-Vehicle Readiness Program!

The Long Beach Clean Cities Coalition is excited to unveil Charging Smart, an innovative program offering technical assistance and designation, supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. This initiative is dedicated to overcoming obstacles hindering the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

Charging Smart offers personalized, complimentary technical support to assist municipalities in aligning their local policies with national best practices, promoting the equitable expansion of electric vehicles (EVs). Local governments that meet specific criteria can attain a bronze, silver, or gold designation, earning national recognition for their efforts to foster the equitable progression of EVs.”

Charging Smart is initiating a pilot phase targeted at local governments within Colorado, Virginia, North Texas, and Southern California. Communities in Minnesota, Michigan, and Ohio are currently participating in a developmental stage of the program. It is anticipated that one of these states will soon form the inaugural Charging Smart designated cohort this spring. A similar initiative has already been launched in Northern Illinois through a collaboration with Charging Smart. In due course, Charging Smart plans to extend availability to communities across the U.S.

Want to get involved? Click here to learn more!

In collaboration with the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and various national organizations, we are thrilled to unveil our innovative new program. This initiative aims to dismantle obstacles impeding the growth of EV charging networks. Our team is dedicated to assisting local authorities in embracing electric vehicles (EVs) and realizing their objectives in transportation and economic advancement, offering support ranging from zoning modifications to EV incentives.”

Interested in how Charging Smart can support your community?

Visit the webpage and let us know you want to join the program.

The GUMBO (Guaranteeing Access to Underserved and Marginalized Populations by Building Employment Opportunities) Workforce Development Initiative was officially launched on November 8, 2023, by partners, Louisiana Clean Fuels (LCF), and Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC). The announcement was made at a news conference held at the BRCC Arlington Campus’ Automotive Training Center and was supported by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy of the U.S. Department of Energy. This innovative partnership, led by the Vehicle Technologies Program Office, attempts to meet the pressing need for knowledgeable technicians who can install and operate Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). 

Please join us in celebrating the distinguished recipients of this year’s Clean Energy Hall of Fame Awards! On December 7, the California Energy Commission will acknowledge these remarkable individuals who have played a pivotal role in propelling California towards its clean energy objectives.

Now in its fourth year, these prestigious awards pay tribute to those who have made extraordinary efforts in assisting California’s journey towards a 100 percent clean energy future for all.

Read more.