Maryland Governor Wes Moore has unveiled $4.7 million in federal funding aimed at expanding the state's offshore wind workforce. The funding will be used to create a skilled worker pipeline, focusing on building a diverse and inclusive workforce for Maryland's wind energy sector.
Governor Moore highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of the investment, stating, “Maryland is serious about offshore wind – and not just because of what it means for our environment: but also because of what it means for our economy. Investments in offshore wind will help us create jobs, raise wages, and grow wealth for Maryland families. We thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued partnership in this vital push to make Maryland more competitive for all.”
The grant is part of the Maryland Department of Labor's Maryland Works for Wind initiative, which received $23 million in federal funds in 2022 to develop the state's wind industry. The initiative involves a collaboration of employers, unions, local workforce development areas, business alliances, and training providers, working to enhance Maryland's talent pool for the wind sector.
Governor Moore added that the initiative is designed to drive economic development, connect historically underrepresented populations to well-paying careers, and build on existing investments. The Maryland Department of Labor is now accepting proposals for projects that will offer workforce training, supportive services, and job placement assistance in fields supporting the offshore wind industry, including skilled trades, manufacturing, transportation, and logistics.
Preference will be given to proposals that include innovative strategies for recruiting and serving traditionally underserved populations, including women and people of color.
