Building Future-Ready Workers
Five strategies for developing Houston’s energy workforce.
Based on a collaborative white paper written by UH Energy and Innovation Hydrogen Program Officer Paul Doucette
As the global energy landscape shifts toward sustainable solutions, the Greater Houston area — already an established hub for global traditional energy — is a key player in the low-carbon transition. In addition to technological, policy and financial implications, the transition’s impact on Houston’s diverse workforce is a pressing concern. “Workforce Development for the Future of Energy,” a new white paper published by the University of Houston’s Division of Energy and Innovation, lays out five key strategies to equip the region’s workforce for this new era and make the most of future opportunities.
1 Strong relationships. Collaboration between industry, schools and training organizations is crucial. By aligning skill-building programs with real-world demands, Houston can develop a workforce ready to lead in emerging sectors such as hydrogen and renewables.
2 Hands-on training programs. Practical experience is essential for success in energy’s emerging roles. Expanding internships, apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships will allow workers to gain skills directly applicable to their careers through paid, hands-on training.
3 Flexible education pathways. Workforce development must be accessible to all. Offering multiple training approaches, from industry-led programs to community-based courses, will ensure both new and current workers have the resources to adapt and thrive.
4 Comprehensive support services. An inclusive workforce transition demands we support all community members. Removing barriers is key to an inclusive workforce. Expanding support services such as childcare, transportation and financial aid will enable more people to participate in training and job opportunities.
5 Early and ongoing outreach. Initiatives like career fairs and science, technology, engineering and math outreach should begin well before high school graduation, making students aware of career paths in energy and preparing them early for the steps they need to succeed. The future of the energy sector in Houston and beyond depends on a skilled, adaptable and inclusive workforce.
Challenges & Opportunities
With so much of Houston’s employment tied to energy, the low-carbon transition will have far-reaching effects.
4,700+
energy companies based in Houston
180,000
new jobs in the Greater Houston area
$75K+
average annual salary of new jobs in the emerging hydrogen ecosystem
40%
of Houston's employment tied to energy
Based on “Workforce Development for the Future of Energy,” a collaborative white paper written by UH Energy and Innovation Hydrogen Program Officer Paul Doucette, along with contributions from Ramanan Krishnamoorti, Alan Rossiter and Aparajita Dutta, University of Houston; Anne Bartlett, Brazosport College; Rocky Barney, College of the Mainland; Jay Culver, San Jacinto College; Steven Kahla and Christa Spears, Lone Star College; Michael Webster, Houston Community College; and Melvin White, MRSW Management LLC.
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