Vermont Adult Learning (VAL) is recruiting participants, ages 18 and older, for its next three-week weatherization training session starting Monday, October 18th at BROC in Rutland. Contact Jeff Nerney at jnerney@vtadultlearning.org or call (802)779-0057 for more information or to sign up.

VAL launched Energy Works, a Workforce Training program benefiting low-income Vermonters while aligning with objectives of Vermont's Comprehensive Energy Plan. The program trains unemployed and underemployed Vermonters, facilitates energy efficiency cost savings for low-income households, and provides local sustainable energy businesses with experienced trainees. Training includes classroom instruction, hands-on skill development, job shadows, and placement assistance.

"You could see and feel the successes of your work," observed a trainee from September's 2021 inaugural class. "Before we blew insulation in a room it was cold in the morning. When we came back the next morning to that room, it was warm. That's when it hit me that the work we're doing helps people out."

VAL will provide a $250 stipend for participants completing the program. The training sessions will be held at the Bennington Rutland Opportunity Council (BROC) and will last for 3 weeks. During the first week, the sessions will run from 9am – 4pm, with a break at noon for lunch (lunch is included in the program). Weeks 2 and 3 will consist of home visits for hands-on instruction, employability skills/customer service workshops, job shadows, Industry Recognized Certification (IRC) instruction and exam, educational support for IRC's, assistance with applications and job placement assistance. Each session will have 6 to 8 participants, which will allow for meaningful classroom instruction and small hands-on group instruction opportunities. Additional sessions will be added to the schedule once dates have been confirmed.

Dec 2, 2024, 6:30 to 8 PM

Dec 3, 2024, 11 AM to 12 PM

Dec 4, 2024, 10 AM to 12 PM