CAPS and Accenture Unveil “Driving the Future” Report on Workforce Upskilling in California’s Clean Mobility Industry
Report Highlights Opportunities to Integrate Zero-Emission and Electric Vehicle Content in Career and Technical Education Programs
OAKLAND, CALIF., SEPTEMBER 2024 — Climate Action Pathways for Schools (CAPS), is proud to announce the release of the “Driving the Future” report, co-developed with electric vehicle company Rivian, which examines how California’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs can help prepare high school students for careers in the state’s growing green transportation sector. As California continues its push toward a zero-emissions future, the need for a skilled workforce in clean mobility is more urgent than ever.
The report identifies critical opportunities to incorporate Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and Electric Vehicle (EV) learning content into CTE industry sectors, with a focus on Transportation and Energy, Environment, and Utilities. As California aims to make all new passenger cars and trucks zero-emission by 2035 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 1990 levels by 2030, upskilling the transportation workforce will play a crucial role in achieving these ambitious goals.
“The transition to clean mobility requires a workforce that is prepared to meet the challenges of an evolving industry,” said Kirk Anne Taylor, Executive Director of CAPS. “Our report explores how we can align high school education with real-world needs, ensuring that today’s students are ready for careers in the growing green economy.”
Key features of the “Driving the Future” report include:
A comprehensive assessment of California’s CTE programs, highlighting gaps and opportunities to integrate ZEV/EV content.
The importance of aligning high school education with employers' needs to boost employability in the clean mobility sector.
Recommendations for industry and educational partnerships to support workforce development and clean mobility goals.
In addition to addressing California’s CTE programs, the report also aligns with broader state initiatives, such as the push for clean energy jobs, creating a pathway for high school students to access sustainable careers. CAPS and Accenture are committed to working with educators, industry leaders, and policymakers to ensure students are equipped with the skills necessary for the green economy.
In addition to the report, CAPS has developed seven learning modules to help schools incorporate zero-emissions and electric vehicle content into their curriculum. These modules, available by request, aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in this fast-growing field.
The “Driving the Future” report is now available for download on the CAPS website. To learn more and access the full report, visit the CAPS website.
ABOUT CAPS:
Climate Action Pathways for Schools (CAPS) is a California 501C (3) nonprofit organization that partners with under-resourced schools to lower operating costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and advance climate literacy. We provide a project-based learning program to prepare students for green jobs and high-skill career pathways by helping them develop and execute projects that mitigate climate change, resulting in more equitable, sustainable, and resilient schools and communities. Learn more: www.climateactionpathways.org