Workforce Program
A sustainable future through family-sustaining careers
Partnership with Rising Sun Center for Opportunity
Thanks to our partnership with community-based nonprofit Rising Sun Center for Opportunity, the Central California Rural Regional Energy Network (CCR REN) is bringing Climate Careers, a training and employment opportunity for youth ages 15–24, to 13 counties in the San Joaquin Valley, Monterey Bay Area, and Eastern Sierra between 2025-2027.
Community driven climate action
In 2000, Climate Careers was built by and for young Californians. It has a 25-year track record of success employing over 2,000 youth who helped over 62,000 homes save money and energy. Youth leave Climate Careers with the connections, experience, and networks to access life-changing opportunities.
When youth join Climate Careers, they earn a living wage as Energy Specialists, providing free energy efficiency, electrification, and water conservation services—called Green House Calls—to rural and hard-to-reach residents of their own communities, improving local resilience and saving residents money. Mentorship and professional development workshops transition into more robust career exploration during paid, 120- hour externships, preparing youth to pursue sustainable careers.
How can I apply?
Visit Rising Sun’s Climate Careers page to learn more. Some roles are age-dependent. Descriptions for all open positions can be found on Rising Sun’s jobs page. Rising Sun also hires local, seasonal managerial staff to support the program and our youth.
The Green House Call
A free, personalized service
The Climate Climate Careers Green House Call is provided by youth Energy Specialists who make saving energy easy for rural homeowners and renters.
Enjoy LED light bulbs, power strips, water-saving devices, weather stripping, and more—valued at up to $125—while trimming your monthly bills.
Have a question about our programs?
If you have a question, comment, or just want to learn more about our programs, please reach out and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Your message is important to us and we’re here to help.