Labor Unions and Offshore Wind 101

Labor unions play a critical role in the construction of offshore wind projects. Through advocacy by unions and other worker rights organizations, many states have prioritized the use of union labor through their clean energy standards, procurements, and incentives.  

This Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA) webinar will explore the role of labor unions in offshore wind projects, discussing how trades and unions are involved in construction, how unions train workers for future projects, and how state governments, unions, and offshore wind developers work together to ensure projects get built with high road labor standards. 

This webinar is made possible by the Maryland Department of Labor’s Maryland Works for Wind Initiative, a regional consortium committed to establishing Maryland as the country’s premier destination for offshore wind training, fabrication, and employment. The project includes a robust sectoral partnership inclusive of employers, unions, Local Workforce Development Areas, business alliances, and training providers. The partners work collaboratively to cultivate a pipeline of skilled talent in support of the emerging offshore wind clean energy industry. 

Speakers: 

• Chanel Viator, Program Manager, Maryland Department of Labor
• Josh Beebe, Apprenticeship Office Manager, Ironworkers Local 5
• Harry Antone, Labor Liaison, Climate Jobs Rhode Island 
• Sam Schacht, Project Director, Clean Energy States Alliance (Moderator)