ANNAPOLIS, MD — On Thursday, Governor Wes Moore attended a roundtable discussion to promote Maryland’s commitment to increasing offshore wind production and creating jobs in the manufacturing field at the Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC) Baltimore headquarters. The non-profit organization teaches low-income adults and workers skills to earn a living wage through free manufacturing job training in welding and CNC operation.
“Our administration is seizing this moment and using the growing offshore wind industry to connect all Marylanders with work, wages, and wealth,” said Governor Moore. “JARC is setting an example to the entire state–showing how we can bolster our workforce, strengthen our economy, and build a greener world. I look forward to working with JARC to move Maryland forward.”
The governor was joined by leadership from the Maryland Energy Administration, Maryland Department of Labor, and JARC students, graduates, and leadership.
Through the Maryland Energy Administration’s FY22 Offshore Wind Supply Chain Development Grants, JARC Baltimore is one of six businesses and training facilities awarded the Maryland Offshore Wind Workforce Training Grant. JARC received $225,000 for their Careers Manufacturing Program, which includes the Computer Numerical Control Fast Track Program, the Welding Fast Track Program, and Fundamentals of Manufacturing Program. These programs provide students with skills needed for positions in the metalworking and construction industries and provide students with soft skills and career readiness education.
Originally founded in Chicago, JARC Baltimore opened in 2015 to help local low-income adults get the skills and support needed to jumpstart a manufacturing or construction career. JARC also assists employers through training and support services.
Earlier this week, Governor Moore announced that the state will aim to quadruple the amount of energy produced by offshore wind from about 2 gigawatts to 8.5 gigawatts of power. To support the effort, the administration is working to ensure industry access to an array of state resources, attracting investment, and assisting with workforce development.
The governor also announced strengthening key partnerships that will create 15,000 jobs in the state, establishing a dedicated position in Maryland Commerce focused on clean energy, and working with the Energy Administration to deliver more grants to companies connected to the offshore wind supply chain.
The initiatives are all part of the governor’s plan to move Maryland toward achieving the goal of 100% clean energy by 2035.