Climate as a Launchpad for Economic Mobility

Climate investments are growing, but too often local residents are left out of the jobs and pathways that follow. This session shares a practical model for turning climate work into launchpads for economic mobility through paid gigs, trusted local programs, and clearer progression milestones. Drawing on our collaboration with American Forests, Dream.org, and the GitLab Foundation, participants will explore how communities can build on existing assets to help residents gain hands-on experience, demonstrate readiness, and move into clean energy and trades careers with stronger support, lower friction, and clearer next steps.