The federal government will put half a million dollars toward a program that puts Springfieldians into better, greener jobs.
The Springfield Department of Workforce Development will receive a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to expand its Green for Greene job training program. Green for Greene is a free five-week training program that provides its graduates with certifications to work in transportation, manufacturing and construction. The certifications are required for higher-wage jobs with opportunities for career advancement.
The funding provides for instructional cohorts of 28-32 students per year. Jobs secured after completion of training average a starting wage of $16 per hour.
Springfield Deputy City Manager Maurice Jones said the staff at City Hall is grateful for Green for Greene to continue.
“Nationally, as well as regionally, demand for a skilled workforce has risen,” Jones said. “This program provides participants the opportunity to become a part of the growing supply of skilled workers. We are excited about our continued partnership with the EPA.”
Green for Greene graduates can finish the program certified for the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER), OSHA 10, trenching and excavation, confined space, lead renovation repair and painting (RRP), lead abatement, asbestos handling, mold abatement, silica, flagger, forklift driver, first aid/CPR and bloodborne pathogens.
With the increased funding, Green for Greene will offer expanded certifications in environmental jobs. At the conclusion of each cohort, graduates can connect with potential employers at a job fair.
“We will now be able to offer evening classes in addition to daytime classes to support the schedules of individuals who are already in the workforce but want to upskill,” said Ericka Schmeekle, interim director of workforce development. “This allows the flexibility to be able to work while earning credentials that lead to a higher paying job.”
The department has previously received four rounds of EPA funding in the amount of $200,000 per round. In addition to the 13 certifications currently offered, the program will now expand to offer a CDL with Hazmat Endorsement.
To apply for Green for Greene, or for more information, visit the city's webpage for Green for Greene program or call the Missouri Job Center at (417) 887-4343.
