Exelon Partners with ComEd and Nicor Gas to Enhance Local Workforce in Energy Efficiency

Empowering Local Workforce Through Energy Efficiency Training Initiatives

ComEd and Nicor Gas are making significant strides in enhancing the skill set of local graduates through their collaborative Market Development Initiative (MDI) programs focused on energy efficiency. This partnership aims to equip recent graduates with advanced certifications from the Building Performance Institute (BPI), which are crucial for performing energy modeling, building analysis, and data evaluation. By providing these credentials, ComEd and Nicor Gas are not only preparing graduates for immediate job opportunities in the growing energy efficiency sector but are also empowering them to serve their communities more effectively by delivering essential weatherization services.

The initiative highlights the importance of a skilled workforce in the energy efficiency domain, a sector pivotal for achieving sustainability goals. Kelly Lena, director of energy efficiency services for Nicor Gas, points out that these advanced certifications enable MDI graduates to make a significant impact in their communities. This sentiment is echoed by Nick Bafaloukos, ComEd’s director of business and customer support, who emphasizes the critical role of training in supporting the development of a robust local workforce. The MDI programs are tailored to serve diverse individuals, reflecting the companies' commitment to inclusivity and community empowerment in the energy sector.

Recently, 22 graduates completed a rigorous training program in Chicago and Carol Stream, Illinois, which included comprehensive sessions aimed at achieving the Building Analyst Professional (BA-P) credential. This intensive four-day curriculum built upon prior certifications such as Building Science Principles (BSP) and Building Analyst Technician (BA-T), culminating in a final exam. As ComEd and Nicor Gas continue to foster a skilled workforce in energy efficiency, they are also addressing the growing demand for energy-efficient solutions among their respective customer bases—over 4 million customers served by ComEd and more than 2.3 million by Nicor Gas.

In addition to bolstering the local workforce, this initiative aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency as a key driver for sustainability and economic growth. The partnership not only enhances the qualifications of MDI graduates but also contributes to the overall development of the energy efficiency sector in Illinois. For those interested in pursuing further training opportunities, additional information is available at ComEd.com/MDI and nicorgas.com/mdi.