Massachusetts Invests $4.2M in Offshore Wind Jobs

Massachusetts is betting big on offshore wind, and the people who will make it happen are getting the support they need to succeed.

Governor Maura Healey and the Mass Clean Energy Center just announced $4.2 million in funding split between workforce training and environmental research. The investment will prepare workers for careers in offshore wind while funding studies on how to protect fisheries, wildlife, and ocean ecosystems.

Eight workforce programs will receive $1.7 million to train people in the skills needed to build, operate, and maintain offshore wind farms. Massachusetts Maritime Academy will use $260,000 to establish helicopter underwater escape training, a critical safety certification for offshore workers. TITAN Structural Group is receiving $500,000 to equip trades workers with offshore wind safety certifications through partnerships with ironworkers, electricians, and painters unions.

UMass Dartmouth will add 30 paid internships to its offshore wind program, giving students hands-on experience in this growing field. The best part? Many of these skills transfer directly to other industries like construction, maritime work, and manufacturing, so workers gain resilience beyond just one sector.

Another $2.5 million will fund 12 research projects studying how offshore wind affects ocean life and fishing communities. The New England Aquarium will investigate impacts on recreational fishing in Southern New England. UMass Dartmouth is continuing research on cod spawning grounds to ensure wind farms don't disrupt critical habitats.

Since 2018, the Offshore Wind Works program has awarded $22 million to 35 projects, leveraging an additional $11 million in matching funds from partners. This year's awards are expected to bring in nearly $900,000 more in cost-sharing and contributions.

The Ripple Effect

This dual approach creates something special. Training programs are building career pathways for thousands of workers while research ensures the industry grows without harming the ocean ecosystem that fishing communities depend on. At least seven paid internships will give Massachusetts university students real-world experience in offshore wind science.

Governor Healey put it simply: "Offshore wind means good jobs, more clean energy and real economic opportunity for Massachusetts." The state is proving you can build a clean energy future while protecting both workers and the environment.

Massachusetts is showing how investing in people and planet together creates lasting change.