SEI Launches Green Career Connections Toolkit

By Alexis Fineman

Between fires, floods, and droughts, more and more people of all ages are waking up to the climate crisis. One common question that people young and old are asking themselves is, “What can I do?!” While there is no shortage of meaningful ways to engage in climate and sustainability work, for many people, and younger folks in particular, the answer to that question is just two words: green jobs.

With its mission to build leaders for a resilient world, SEI has long been focused on providing students the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the sustainability workforce with confidence and a sense of purpose. Compiling several decades of industry leadership in green careers readiness, SEI is now launching its first-ever Career Connections Toolkit, a one-stop shop for educators, counselors, and emerging professionals.
​
The Career Connections Toolkit provides tools for job seekers interested in green careers. The toolkit will guide you through the early stages of a job search, starting with an exploration of sustainability professions and moving through applying for jobs and networking. It also includes an introduction to industry certifications. Access SEI’s Career Connections Toolkit here.

SEI’s holistic approach to workforce development and career education includes:

1. Awareness and inspiration. Through our Green Careers Conferences and our Green Careers Webinars, students learn directly from industry leaders across a range of sectors, including engineering, conservation, community organizing, and policymaking.
2. Technical education.  SEI integrates the California Technical Education standards throughout its high school sustainability curriculum, including several year-long courses such as Innovations in Green Technology and Energy and Environmental Design which are designed for students in the Energy, Environment, and Utilities pathway. SEI’s NGSS-aligned curriculum has also received University of California A-G approval for college preparatory courses.
3. Skill development. Self-awareness and “soft skills” both play a critical role in a student’s career trajectory, and SEI curricula are structured to cultivate both. Students inventory their skills and interests, practice their “minute message,” hone their resumes and cover letters, and learn how to network effectively with professionals.
4. Internships, fellowships, and formal career pathways. In addition to providing resources, SEI provides opportunities. Our flagship Climate Corps Fellowship Program provides formal professional development opportunities for over one hundred early-career professionals each year. Throughout the 10-month program, Fellows are matched with organizations that are taking climate action, and Fellows provide critical support in implementing projects. They receive on-the-job training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, with an 85% placement rate after program completion.

If you are interested in learning more about the ways SEI can support career readiness on your campus or in your organization, we are excited to connect!  

If you have any questions or need assistance accessing the Toolkit, email energizeschools@seiinc.org.