ECC, ComEd Launch No-Cost Energy Efficiency Training Program this Summer

Elgin Community College (ECC), in collaboration with ComEd’s Market Development Initiative (MDI), is hosting an eight-week Energy Efficiency Newcomer Training Cohort beginning Monday, July 13. The no-cost workforce training program prepares participants for careers in the growing energy efficiency industry through paid, hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications. 

The cohort combines classroom instruction with on-the-job experience, giving participants the opportunity to earn three Building Performance Institute (BPI) certifications after successfully passing the required exams. The skills learned are designed to provide a direct pathway to employment in the growing energy efficiency sector.

"This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to expand workforce pathways for our community while supporting our apprenticeship, WIOA, HVAC, and Energy Management initiatives,” said Gina De rosier- Cook, dean of workforce development at ECC. “The program aligns closely with workforce priorities in the region and provides participants with a direct pathway into high-demand careers."

The cohort will run from July 13 through September 4, 2026, at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive in Elgin. Participants will receive paid training at $17.50 per hour, weekly gas cards of $75, access to wraparound support services, and valuable hands-on experience in the energy efficiency field.

To participate, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or (General Education Development) GED certification 
• Reside within the ComEd service area
• Possess a valid driver's license
• Be available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the full eight-week program.

ComEd's Market Development Initiative (MDI) offers no-cost resources and training to help prepare a skilled workforce for an energy-efficient future through its comprehensive Newcomer and Skilled training cohorts. The skills and tools offered through MDI are designed to help families and businesses across northern Illinois access the benefits of ComEd’s award-winning Energy Efficiency Program, which features services, rebates, and discounts to help families and businesses manage energy use to lower bills. Since 2008, the program has helped hundreds of thousands of customers save more than $13 billion on their energy bills, while awarding more than $2.5 billion in incentives, which help offset the cost of energy-efficiency improvements.

Individuals interested in applying for or learning more about the Energy Efficiency Newcomer Training Cohort at ECC can visit ComEd.com/Newcomer or contact ComEdWFD@wmenergy.com or (855) 433-2700. Employers and companies interested in hosting a participant can email ComEdWFD@wmenergy.com or call (855) 433-2700.

For information on all of ComEd’s Market Development Initiative cohorts, visit ComEd.com/MDI.

Media Inquiries

Members of the media seeking interviews or additional information may contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at News@elgin.edu.