Nicor Gas launches second Energy Efficiency Workforce Development Program in Aurora

Nicor Gas recently kicked off its second cohort of the “Novice Workforce Training & Employment Program,” a workforce development program launched in 2023 to increase the number of skilled energy efficiency technicians in the company’s service territory across Northern Illinois.

The full-time, seven-week program received nearly 400 applications for 14 spots this year with individuals ages 18 to 40 committed for the current cohort.

Participants will receive full-time, hands-on training in Air Leakage Control Installer (ALCI), classroom instruction on Healthy Homes Principles, OSHA-10 and safety measures, as well as an opportunity to earn their Building Performance Institute Inc. certifications.

Students will spend the last two weeks of the program participating in on-the-job field training with local trade allies in the energy efficiency field.

This year’s cohort is meeting in locations across the Aurora area including Waubonsee Community College in downtown Aurora and at Temperature Equipment Corporation’s training facility.

Students also will participate in safety training at the Nicor Gas Technical Training Center in Naperville.

Upon successful completion in the program, students will have earned the technical and safety certifications needed to excel in the energy efficiency industry and will be prepared with a complete resume. Many participants leave the program with full-time opportunities with contractors throughout the region, often earning higher wages and benefits than in their prior employment.

In its first year, the Novice Workforce Training & Employment Program graduated six individuals who are now all employed within the energy efficiency field and helping meet the needs of their communities and the clean energy goals for the state of Illinois.

To learn more about the energy efficiency workforce development program, visit www.nicorgas.com/wte.