Newark, N.J. – The Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association (IHNA), an organization of dedicated homeowners and renters in the Ivy Hill Section of Newark, NJ and Technoforce, a workforce and community development firm announce the launch of a pilot offshore wind pre-apprentice program. The program, funded by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), is focused on readying Newark residents to prepare for skills-based careers in the offshore wind industry. It offers training in basic computer skills, mathematics, language proficiency, foundational electrical theory, career development, job readiness, and effective test-taking strategies. Additionally, participants will engage in virtual reality training, gaining experience in real-time maintenance and repair of wind turbines.
“This opportunity has provided us the ability to blend the talents and rich history of the Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association with the workforce opportunities being provided by the emerging offshore wind industry.” says IHNA’s former President Reverend Douglas Bell.
NJEDA’s Offshore Wind Workforce and Skills Development Grant Challenge awarded $425,155 to build and launch the program. Grant Challenge funds are intended to launch innovative training programs focused on strengthening and diversifying the state’s offshore wind workforce, with a particular emphasis on serving Overburdened Communities. The Grant Challenge is part of NJEDA’s Wind Institute for Innovation and Training’s efforts to coordinate and deploy resources to advance offshore wind workforce development, research, and innovation in the state.
“Successful completion of the program positions participants for potential entry into an apprenticeship, advanced skill training, or specialized industry programs within the offshore wind sector. Graduates will be well-equipped to excel in examinations such as the IBEW aptitude test and other industry entrance exams.” says Robin Tabakin, President of Technoforce.
The project team, working in conjunction with Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association and Technoforce, consists of experts within the offshore wind and education industries that include IDE Corp./ EdQuiddity Inc, IWNL Consulting, Local Content, MRV Group, National Wind Services Corp and The WilkinzGroup.
The partnership between Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association and Technoforce started under Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association former President Reverend Douglas Bell’s term in 2023. Moving forward newly elected IHNA President Kallita Phipps will lead the organization.
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About Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association
The Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association is dedicated to the mission of making the Ivy Hill section of Newark an attractive community and a good place to live. The Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association (IHNA) was founded in 1983. IHNA started as an informal gathering of concerned neighbors who understood the value of service and advocacy. In the year 2000, the Association became a formal 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization.
About Technoforce
Technoforce is a New Jersey based workforce and community development firm. Technoforce commitment to industry and community is reflective in their work and leadership with the following organizations: Equity + Environmental Justice Center, Supplier Diversity Development Council, New Jersey Association of Women Business Owners and LocalContent.com
