This program is setting former at-risk youth up for success.

According to PR Newswire, the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) is launching its Green Path Careers Program to train former at-risk youth between the ages of 18 and 24 for an energy efficiency career.

“Through our Green Path Careers Program, participants will receive a comprehensive package of training and support that includes personal enrichment training, technical training, and education, and paid work experience with local companies working in energy efficiency,” said Wendy Angel, Regional Director at the Emerald Cities Collaborative in a news release. “The Green Path Careers team will also assist participants in developing a professional resume, preparing for interviews, and search support during the job application process.”

As one of the fastest-growing career fields in the United States, the industry is currently responsible for employing more than 2.35 million Americans. Plus, jobs continue to be added each year.

However, despite the growth, over 75 percent of employers have found difficulty in hiring qualified workers dues to lack of experience, training, or technical skills.

Programs at SoCalREN’s Public Agency are on a mission to use public agencies to lead their communities toward an affordable, safe, secure, sustainable, and resilient energy future.

SoCalREN currently offers a range of customizable, no-cost services that remove barriers that often get in the way of achieving energy savings.

Programs for businesses and residents are also offered by the company to allow public agencies to work toward benefiting their communities as they head down the path to zero net energy and overall greater sustainability.

Green Path Careers aims to develop the much-needed energy-efficiency talent to sustain the ever-evolving field. The program will give former at-risk youth the opportunity to have an advantage when it comes to securing a career in energy efficiency within the United States.

For more on what opportunities are available with Green Path Careers, click here.