From Blue to Green: Transforming Jobs Around the World
Chapter 8: Jobs for a Green Future
Too often, when a clean energy company wins an auction to develop new renewable energy projects, it brings along its own trained employees from the company’s country of origin.
But USAID’s training for local residents and Indigenous Wayuu people is giving locals the skills they need to work in emerging sectors.
The program also teaches current professionals how to work well with the Wayuu — how to remain culturally sensitive and to honor ancestral rights to land.
© Hemis/Alamy
© Hemis/Alamy
“It’s not only about implementing the projects," introducing new technology in La Guajira, Garavito says, “but also engaging all communities and different actors of the economy at the national level.”
USAID hopes to offer 10 courses in the coming months, each enrolling 25 people.
And just in time, too.
How does the Wayuu community fit into the landscape of Colombia’s energy policy transition? (Select Media © AP Images)
How does the Wayuu community fit into the landscape of Colombia’s energy policy transition? (Select Media © AP Images)
The first wind farm turbines in La Guajira were erected in May 2021, and many more are expected to begin turning in 2022. The turbines and new solar arrays promise a bright future for Colombia’s energy market.
“It’s encouraging to see that it’s not happening only at the [local] level but at this national level," Garavito says.
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
Photo courtesy of Vestas LATAM
How can future generations contribute to the green energy revolution? (Select Media © AP Images)
How can future generations contribute to the green energy revolution? (Select Media © AP Images)
Reaching global net-zero represents the greatest economic opportunity of our time but no country can solve the climate crisis alone. Be a part of the bold action needed to tackle the climate crisis for future generations.
Are you interested in becoming part of the clean energy revolution? If you live in the United States, get up to speed on the latest developments in your community by reading Green America.
Wherever you live, check out USAID’s SURE program page to see what opportunities are coming to your country.
