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The K–12 Energy Career Education Program introduces students to clean energy and sustainability careers through career day presentations, guest lectures, STEM fairs, Earth Day programs, and other school-based events. The program gives educators an accessible way to integrate real world energy concepts into their classrooms while helping students explore future career opportunities.

Students learn about energy efficiency, renewable energy, building performance, and emerging clean energy technologies through interactive sessions with DOEE staff and industry professionals. The program emphasizes STEM learning, Career and Technical Education (CTE) alignment, and workforce readiness, helping students understand how energy careers connect to engineering, environmental science, construction, and technology fields.

To extend career awareness, the program connects students with DOEE workforce pathway initiatives such as Green Pathways, Solar Works DC, and the Green Zone Environmental Program (GZEP). This creates a progression from early exposure to real opportunities in training, internships, and the clean energy workforce in the District.

Why it matters: Energy careers are among the fastest-growing sectors in the nation, offering high-demand jobs that support a cleaner, more resilient future. By introducing these opportunities early, DOEE empowers students to become leaders in sustainability and innovation.

Get involved: Schools, teachers, and students can request an energy career presentation by contacting DOEE’s Outreach, Engagement, and Capacity Building Branch team at email [email protected] .