Dr. Berneece Herbert Secures Substantial Funding for Clean Energy Workforce Initiative Targeting Minority Youth

Dr. Berneece Herbert, a Nevisian-born academic leader and Chair of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Jackson State University (JSU), has been awarded a substantial grant of nearly half a million dollars to spearhead a groundbreaking workforce development initiative focused on empowering minority youth for careers in the burgeoning clean energy sector. This significant investment, provided by the Gulf Research Program (GRP) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, forms part of a broader $3 million commitment aimed at connecting young Gulf Coast residents aged 16 to 25 with quality employment opportunities within the evolving energy landscape. Dr. Herbert’s project, titled “Strengthening Minority Opportunity Youth Participation for a Future-Ready Energy Literate and Resilient Workforce,” seeks to address the critical need for a skilled and diverse workforce capable of driving the transition towards sustainable energy sources.

The initiative’s core objective is to equip minority youth with the foundational employment and life skills necessary to thrive in the clean energy industry. This includes developing their understanding of energy concepts, commonly referred to as energy literacy, and providing training relevant to specific clean energy sectors such as solar, wind, and hydrogen power. This targeted approach aims to bridge the gap between the growing demand for skilled workers in the clean energy sector and the need for equitable access to these opportunities for underserved populations. Dr. Herbert’s project recognizes the critical role of a diverse and inclusive workforce in driving innovation and ensuring a just transition to a sustainable energy future.

Dr. Herbert’s extensive experience in socio-economic development, strategic planning, and public sector investment, spanning over two decades, makes her uniquely suited to lead this transformative initiative. Her journey from Nevis to her current position as a recognized leader in academia and research reflects a deep commitment to community development and empowerment. Prior roles include serving as Urban Planning Director for the Nevis Island Government and faculty at Alabama A&M University. She has also led various projects funded by prestigious organizations like the USDA, NSF, and MarTREC, focusing on critical issues such as climate change, food security, and the development of sustainable communities. This breadth of experience provides a strong foundation for her work in fostering equitable access to opportunities in the clean energy sector.

The program’s impact extends beyond simply providing job training; it aims to empower a generation of young people to become leaders in the clean energy revolution. As the U.S. transitions away from fossil fuels and embraces cleaner energy sources, Dr. Herbert’s initiative strives to ensure that minority youth are positioned to benefit from the economic growth and opportunities this transition presents. By providing these young individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this rapidly evolving sector, the program seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable energy future. This approach underscores the project’s commitment to social justice and its recognition of the importance of engaging diverse communities in the transition to a sustainable energy economy.

The project’s broader significance lies in its contribution to a more equitable and sustainable future for the Gulf Coast region and the nation as a whole. As clean energy becomes a central economic driver, ensuring that underserved communities are not left behind is crucial for both economic prosperity and social justice. Dr. Herbert’s work will play a pivotal role in creating pathways for minority youth to participate in and benefit from the burgeoning clean energy economy. This focus on inclusivity and equity recognizes that a sustainable future must be one that benefits all members of society.

The collaboration between Jackson State University, Refill Jackson Inc., HRC Consulting, and Just Green Mississippi highlights the project’s strong community focus and commitment to leveraging local expertise. This partnership reflects a shared vision for a more sustainable and equitable future for Mississippi and the wider region. The nearly half-million-dollar grant represents a significant investment in the future of clean energy workforce development and underscores the importance of supporting innovative programs that prioritize equity and inclusivity. The grant serves as a testament to Dr. Herbert’s vision and leadership, as well as Jackson State University’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of energy leaders. The initiative is poised to make a significant contribution to the clean energy transition while simultaneously empowering minority youth and fostering a more just and sustainable future for all.