The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) today announced that Power Up Academy has been named the 2026 Workforce Program of the Year. Power Up Academy will be recognized at an award ceremony at NAWDP’s 42nd Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona on May 18, 2026.
“The Workforce Program of the Year award is given to innovative programs that are making a positive impact by collaborating with organizations to create employment opportunities,” said Melissa Robbins, CEO of NAWDP. “Through strong industry partnerships, hands-on training, and a clear commitment to equity, Power Up Academy is preparing a diverse talent pipeline for the clean energy workforce when it is needed most.”
Power Up Academy is ComEd’s award‑winning workforce training initiative designed to build a pipeline of technical talent to support Illinois’ clean energy transition. Launched in 2023, the program was created through a collaboration between ComEd, Chicago-area engineering firms and community-based organizations to open accessible pathways into engineering and utility careers without requiring a college degree.
Built to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in grid modernization and clean energy, Power Up Academy prepares adult learners for entry‑level roles such as designers, engineering technicians, project coordinators, and analysts through a 14‑week training program. Participants receive hands-on instruction in AutoCAD, foundational electrical concepts, industry operations, and project management, working through real-world scenarios that mirror utility and engineering work environments.
A cornerstone of the program is its focus on equity and community access. Nearly 90% of graduates identify as people of color, and almost 80% are women, reflecting ComEd’s commitment to building a workforce that mirrors the communities it serves. Graduates benefit from a strong employer coalition that includes HBK Engineering, Primera, Burns & McDonnell, KDM Engineering, Sargent & Lundy, Milhouse, and V3 Companies, creating clear pathways to high‑growth careers.
“Power Up Academy was created to open meaningful pathways into high‑growth energy careers at a time when demand for electric power — and the skilled talent required to meet it — is rising faster than ever,” said Laticia Holbert, senior manager of workforce development at ComEd. “On behalf of ComEd and as a newly certified Workforce Development Professional through NAWDP, we are proud that Power Up Academy is being recognized for advancing excellence and preparing more local residents for critical jobs that will be needed to maintain the grid. This honor reflects the hard work and commitment of our participants, partners, and the northern Illinois communities we serve.”
In 2024, Power Up Academy received accreditation from City Colleges of Chicago, enabling participants to earn up to 13 college credit hours during their training, eliminating a full semester’s cost and expanding advancement opportunities.
Power Up Academy exemplifies ComEd’s broader commitment to inclusive workforce development and grid readiness. By blending industry‑aligned training, employer partnerships and community impact, Power Up Academy is not only preparing a new generation of engineering talent but also helping ensure the long‑term reliability and modernization of the electric grid.
