What is Closing the G.A.P.?
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT TRAINING
In partnership with ROOTS of Success, Closing the G.A.P. provides students ages 16-24 with access to over 100 hours of work development training. Students graduate with resumes, interview experience, business plans, and industry credentials. Outcomes include school completion (high school diploma or equivalent), retaining a job, and enrollment into post-secondary education or advanced training.
Outcomes
INCREASES IN WORKFORCE READINESS
Students participating in Closing the G.A.P:
​
-
Earn 10 micro-credentials leading to a federally recognized pre-apprenticeship certificate as Environmental Specialists.
-
Gain access to internships and jobs with King County Wastewater, Waste Management, and local colleges.
-
Receive individualized case management and workforce readiness training.
Out of 75 participants throughout four cohorts:
​
-
78% developed a personalized workforce action plan, outlining career goals and steps toward employment or further education.
-
40% Transitioned into internships, certifications, or post-secondary enrollment ensuring a direct path to economic mobility.
Green Job Benefits
Rapid Industry Expansion
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that green jobs will grow faster than the national average across many sectors between 2023 and 2033. For Example:
Wind turbine service technicians are projected to grow 44% and Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers are expected to grow by 22%.
​
Environmental scientists and specialists are projected to grow by 6%—faster than many
traditional fields.
​
Economic Value of the Green Economy
According to the Brookings Institution, the U.S. clean energy economy already supports 3.3
million jobs, with opportunities across construction, manufacturing, design, and professional services.
Jobs in the green sector often pay up to 25% more than the national median wage and are
more likely to be unionized or offer benefits.
Youth and Equity Opportunity
A 2023 report by E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs) found that nearly 40% of new cleanenergy jobs created since 2020 have gone to workers under 30, indicating strong potential for youth workforce development.
Yet BIPOC workers remain underrepresented, especially in higher-paying technical and
managerial roles—highlighting the importance of equity-driven training and pipeline programs.
