(Farmingdale, NY) – Farmingdale State College recently hosted “Exploring Career Pathways in the Wind Industry,” an interactive event designed to introduce high school students and their teachers to the rapidly growing offshore wind sector. The initiative aimed to highlight career opportunities in this sustainable energy industry while showcasing the college’s commitment to workforce development.
Students from Freeport High School, participants in Farmingdale State College’s High School to University Program, and students from Brooklyn enrolled in the Central Brooklyn Economic Development Corporation’s Brooklyn Youth Offshore Wind Industry Training Program attended the event. Additionally, leadership from Spin The Yard, a community-based organization, was present to support the initiative.
The day began with presentations from Farmingdale State College faculty members, who discussed the college’s offshore wind training initiatives, including programs supported by the Offshore Wind Training Institute (OWTI) grant:
• Dr. Khosro Shirvani, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Dr. Betty Feng, Associate Professor of Business Management
• Dr. Poulo Castillo, Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology
• Marjaneh Issapour, Founding Director of the Renewable Energy & Sustainability Center
Following the presentations, students participated in an engaging hands-on wind energy activity, applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios. A tour of the School of Engineering Technology’s labs and facilities gave students direct exposure to wind turbine components, simulation tools, and emerging renewable energy technologies.
The event also featured a panel discussion with industry experts, each offering unique perspectives on offshore wind career opportunities and its economic and environmental impact:
- Tenicka Chaney, Director of Sports, Entertainment, and Leisure at LocalContent.com and Sports Power Infrastructure
Tenicka Chaney highlighted how sports infrastructure can promote sustainability and community engagement. Matthew Aracich emphasized the demand for skilled tradespeople in wind energy infrastructure projects. Lyle Sclair discussed the need for community engagement to ensure offshore wind projects benefit local economies. Sagar Mehta introduced students to diverse career opportunities at Equinor, spanning engineering, environmental policy, and business development. Melanie DiPalma encouraged students to explore clean energy advocacy as a way to shape the future of renewable energy policies.
By the end of the event, students left with a newfound enthusiasm for offshore wind careers, inspired by expert presentations, interactive learning, and industry connections.
For those interested in learning more or participating in future events, Marjaneh Issapour can be contacted at the Renewable Energy & Sustainability Center at Farmingdale State College.
This initiative underscores the critical role of education in renewable energy workforce development and highlights the importance of collaboration between academic institutions, industry leaders, and community organizations in preparing the next generation of clean energy professionals.
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