Northland Workforce Training Center Launches New Western New York Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Lab

Story originally published September, 2026 via North American Clean Energy

On Friday, September 25, at 11:00 A.M., Northland Workforce Training Center, along with New York Power Authority and National Grid, will unveil its new Western New York Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Training Lab. 

This transformative $4.2 million investment is designed to strengthen public understanding of clean energy systems, provide hands-on clean energy training and workforce development, and support New York State’s ambitious clean energy goals. 

“As New York continues its transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, the demand for skilled workers, informed communities, and industry collaboration has never been greater,” said Stephen Tucker, President and CEO of Northland Workforce Training Center. “NWTC’s new clean energy strategy addresses these needs through two interconnected initiatives that educate the public, inspire future talent, and prepare the next generation of clean energy professionals and technicians.” 

Together, the Experience Center and Training Lab provide a comprehensive approach to clean energy workforce development. The Experience Center will increase awareness, understanding, and engagement around clean energy technologies and opportunities across the community. The Clean Technology Training Lab will provide the technical education, hands-on training, and industry-relevant experience needed to prepare individuals for critical careers throughout the clean energy sector. 

“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is making targeted investments to ensure our workforce is ready for the green economy,” said Empire State Development Commissioner and President & CEO Hope Knight. “The new Western New York Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Training Lab at Northland represent a major step forward. By pairing community education with advanced technical training, this facility will build a stronger talent pipeline in Buffalo and prepare Western New Yorkers for the high-paying, sustainable careers powering our state’s future.” 

This ambitious project was made possible through the support and collaboration of many outstanding partners, including National Grid, New York Power Authority (NYPA), Empire State Development’s Office of Strategic Workforce Development, The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, The Knox Foundation, and Zenobē, among others. Together, these organizations embraced a shared vision of preparing Western New York residents for the clean energy careers of tomorrow. 

“Northland’s new Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Training Lab reflect the kind of workforce development that drives opportunity and progress here in Western New York. Today’s milestone demonstrates how strong regional partnerships can prepare local talent for the high-demand careers that will shape our clean energy future—a future built by and for New Yorkers,” said New York Power Authority Chairman and Western New York Resident John R. Koelmel.  

“Today’s opening of Northland’s Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Training Lab represents meaningful progress in expanding clean energy training opportunities in Western New York. The project, supported by $500,000 in NYPA funding, will provide hands-on learning experiences that prepare participants for high-demand careers and strengthen the region’s clean energy workforce. As this new center comes online, the initiative is moving from vision to reality—advancing workforce development, supporting community growth, and helping fuel New York’s clean energy momentum,” said New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll.  

“The new Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Training Lab uniquely position NWTC to provide students, job seekers, and community members with hands-on experiences to help them succeed in the rapidly evolving energy industry,” said National Grid Regional Director Ken Kujawa. “In the center and lab, students will gain firsthand knowledge as they strive to join a highly skilled workforce that will design, build, operate, and maintain new technologies. National Grid is proud to invest in workforce development initiatives; because building tomorrow’s talent pipeline begins with laying groundwork today.” 

“The opening of the Western New York Clean Energy Experience Center and Clean Technology Training Lab marks a significant milestone for the region. Through education, awareness, and hands-on training, Northland Workforce Training Center is preparing today’s workforce and inspiring tomorrow’s leaders to power New York’s clean energy future,” Tucker said. 

Our Vision 

The vision of Northland Workforce Training Center is to be the premiere model of a public/private partnership providing education, training and workforce development services that are industry driven and employment focused. 

Our Mission 

The mission of Northland Workforce Training Center is to advance the economic well-being of Western New York by developing and maintaining a skilled and diverse workforce to meet the needs of the advanced manufacturing and energy sectors, while providing opportunities to job seekers as well as pathways to gainful employment, career advancement and economic sustainability.