St. Louis Area: Training for the Future of Energy, Automation, and Innovation
The St. Louis region is preparing to lead in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy—and now is the time to train the workforce that will power it.
This transformation is not about replacing jobs—it’s about creating smarter, cleaner, higher-paying careers in energy, robotics, and precision manufacturing. And the people who live here should be first in line to benefit.
What’s the Opportunity?
We’re building a regional hub focused on:
- High-tech manufacturing and automation
- Clean energy production and smart grid systems
- Repurposing old industrial sites into green, modern facilities
This plan doesn’t just attract businesses—it builds a local workforce trained in future-ready skills.
Why It Matters to Students & Adult Learners
Whether you’re in high school, looking to reskill, or already working in the trades, the St. Louis area is opening doors to long-term, high-wage careers in:
- Solar and wind energy systems
- Battery storage and smart grid technology
- Automation and robotics maintenance
- Precision manufacturing and advanced welding
- Industrial cybersecurity and energy management
These careers offer job security, strong benefits, and national demand—and they don’t always require a four-year degree.
Workforce Training & Career Pathways
Here’s how we’re helping people train and transition into the industries of the future:
| Training Focus | Programs & Certifications |
|---|---|
| Renewable Energy Systems | Solar Tech, Wind Turbine Tech, Battery Storage Technician |
| Advanced Manufacturing | Robotics Ops, Precision Machining, CNC Programming |
| Industrial Automation | PLC Systems, Smart Factory Operations, IoT Integration |
| Green Infrastructure Careers | Smart Grid Technician, Energy Auditor, Building Automation |
| STEM & Trades Integration | Mechatronics, Industrial Cybersecurity, Applied Engineering |
These programs will be delivered through local trade schools, community colleges, university partnerships, and apprenticeships.
How the Region Will Grow & Engage Local Talent
✅ Build High-Tech Manufacturing Hubs
- Repurpose old industrial buildings into clean, modern facilities
- Bring in companies focused on aerospace, robotics, and electric vehicle components
- Equip factories with automated production lines and predictive systems
✅ Expand Clean Energy Infrastructure
- Integrate solar and wind energy into both industrial and residential zones
- Train residents in grid management, battery systems, and energy optimization
- Create local energy co-ops that allow communities to sell excess power
✅ Launch Workforce Development Programs
- Partner with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and other institutions
- Offer fast-track certifications and paid apprenticeships in energy and tech
- Provide veterans and displaced workers with reskilling pathways into green careers
✅ Attract Investment for Sustainable Growth
- Host industry expos and energy innovation summits
- Market St. Louis as a low-cost, high-impact site for clean industry and manufacturing
- Secure funding from federal, state, and international sources to support workforce growth
Who Benefits?
- High School & College Students – Hands-on training and clear career tracks in green industry
- Trade Professionals & Veterans – Access to long-term, high-wage jobs in energy and automation
- Small Business Owners – New opportunities in energy, fabrication, and logistics
- Local Residents & Families – Cleaner air, lower energy costs, and rising property values
Community Engagement Strategy
- Public Energy & Tech Expos – Let residents and students explore the tech shaping their future
- Training Partnership Announcements – Keep the public informed of new training opportunities
- Apprenticeship & Job Placement Fairs – Help local workers enter new roles with employer support
- Sustainability Awareness Campaigns – Show how clean energy benefits the whole region
St. Louis: Building the Clean Industrial Economy of the Future
This is not just a job creation plan—it’s a vision for a stronger, smarter, and cleaner future, built by the people who live here. With the right training and support, the St. Louis area can become a national leader in manufacturing, automation, and renewable energy.
If you’re a student, job seeker, tradesperson, or local educator, you’re part of this movement.
Let’s train, build, and power the future—together.