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Preparing the Next Generation of Green Workforce
The transition to a green economy is reshaping how and where we work. The Seal of Climate Literacy helps meet this demand by signaling that a student has more than knowledge – they have experience.
Why the Seal Matters to Industries
The transition to a green economy is reshaping how and where we work. Employers increasingly seek talent with technical and essential skills, systems thinking, and the ability to solve real-world challenges related to climate and sustainability.
The Seal of Climate Literacy helps meet this need by signaling more than knowledge—it reflects experience. Students who earn the Seal demonstrate applied learning and leadership through community-based projects, offering industry a clear indicator of future-ready, climate-literate talent.
Industry Landscape, Green Jobs & Higher Education
The Seal of Climate Literacy aligns education with the workforce needs of a rapidly evolving economy. Students who earn the Seal are prepared to enter or pursue pathways across a wide range of industries, including:
Green Job Growth
The green economy is rapidly expanding, with demand for climate-literate employees across sectors. States that implement the Seal are directly preparing students for these high-demand careers, helping to bridge talent gaps while supporting state economic growth.
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6.4%Of all new U.S. job were in clean energy in 2023.
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2.8%Clean energy employment in 2024. Faster than overall economy.
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2.2million jobsAre in construction and manufacturing building clean energy systems
Source: (E2, Clean Jobs America 2024)
From the Seal to Workforce: A Student Pathway
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Earn the Seal in High School
Students complete climate-aligned coursework and a hands-on project addressing a real issue in their community.
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Apply Learning in Real Contexts
Students build skills in systems thinking, collaboration, data analysis, and communication through project-based work.
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Postsecondary Pathways & Industry Exposure
Students enter college, training programs, or apprenticeships with a recognized credential and clear career direction.
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Enter the Workforce Prepared
Graduates bring climate literacy, applied experience, and leadership skills to roles across energy, business, science, policy, and beyond.
Ways Employers Can Engage
Employers can support the Seal of Climate Literacy in flexible, meaningful ways – no single model required.
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01
Recognize the Seal in Hiring
- Treat the Seal as a signal of climate literacy, leadership, and applied problem-solving in early-career hiring.
- Include the Seal in job descriptions, internships, or fellowship qualifications.
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02
Offer Real-World Learning Experiences
- Host student internships, job shadows, or site visits.
- Propose real business or community challenges for student climate action projects.
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03
Mentor the Next Generation
- Provide staff mentors to support student projects or capstones.
- Participate in student presentations, panels, or project showcases.
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04
Co-Design Career Pathways
- Collaborate with schools, districts, or states to align coursework with workforce needs.
- Help identify in-demand skills, tools, and certifications relevant to your industry.
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05
Be a Visible Champion
- Publicly support the Seal as an employer partner.
- Share your involvement to inspire other businesses and industry leaders to engage.
This is a carousel featuring selected testimonials. Navigate using the buttons.
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At La Plata Electric, I see every day how urgently we need a workforce that understands both the science and the economics of our changing energy landscape. The Seal of Climate Literacy gives students that foundation by connecting classroom learning to real career opportunities. Colorado led the way, and I’m proud to see states across the country following.
Chris HansenCEO of LaPlata Electric Association and former Colorado state legislator and bill sponsor for the Seal of Climate Literacy -
I have always been passionate about climate action, so when I first heard about the Seal of Climate Literacy I was immediately empowered to pursue it as a way of direct action and leadership. I saw it as the perfect bridge to turn my knowledge and experience into a recognized credential that proves I’m ready to tackle the environmental challenges of our time.
EiraSouthern Hills Middle School, CO
(Class of 2031) -
Earning the Seal of Climate Literacy made me feel as though my community valued the work I had done towards a better environment. It gave me the support I needed to continue engaging in that work.
Aisha O’NeilDurango High School, CO
(Class of 2024) -
Climate literacy gives students hope for their futures — focusing on sustainability and science in careers where they can truly make a difference. They grasp its importance early and then work together to create change.
Barbara McLachlanFormer educator and Colorado state legislator and bill sponsor for the Seal of Climate Literacy
Build the Workforce of the Future, Starting Now.
Connect with us to explore partnership opportunities, recognize the Seal in hiring and talent pipelines, or support student learning through projects, mentorship, and work-based experiences.
