HARC, with support from JPMorgan Chase and the Resiliency Workforce Collaborative (RWC), has released a new report examining the Houston region’s growing demand for skilled workers in the energy and water sectors and the barriers that continue to limit fair access to these careers.
Titled Building a Critical Energy and Water Workforce in Under-Resourced Communities, the report provides a comprehensive assessment of workforce gaps, training pathways, and community needs across Harris County. As investments in energy and water infrastructure accelerate, the findings highlight an urgent need to better align workforce development efforts to ensure communities are prepared for emerging job opportunities and employers can gain access to a motivated and supported workforce.
The report draws on community surveys, focus groups, and interviews conducted by HARC with employers and workforce training providers throughout the region. Findings show that while demand for energy and water professionals is rapidly increasing, many community members, particularly those in under-resourced communities, lack awareness of available career pathways and face persistent barriers to training and employment. Transportation challenges, childcare needs, financial constraints, and limited job placement supports were frequently identified as obstacles to participation.
Employers across the Houston region report immediate and growing needs for skilled workers in occupations such as HVAC, electrical trades, plumbing, solar installation, water operations, and energy analysis. Workforce providers emphasized that wraparound support, including childcare, transportation assistance, stipends, and hands-on training, are critical to helping individuals complete programs and secure long-term, stable employment.
Overall, the report underscores the importance of stronger coordination between employers, educators, workforce providers, and community organizations. Expanding career awareness, improving access to training, and aligning regional workforce strategies will be essential to building a resilient, future-ready workforce that reflects and serves all communities in Harris County.
The full report, Building a Critical Energy and Water Workforce in Under-Resourced Communities, is available to read online.
