April 22, 2025
This Earth Day, we’re celebrating not just the planet, but the careers that can help to protect it. If you’re passionate about sustainability or curious about climate solutions, you might be surprised to learn that there are many careers that play a vital role in fighting climate change. And they’re not just for scientists or engineers -- they are across a variety of industries.
According to data from the Colorado Career Development Incentive Program (CDIP), during the 23-24 school year, over 10,850 students completed an approved industry-recognized certification:
- 221 Colorado River Watch Certification
- 912 Home Builder’s Institute (HBI) Pre-Apprenticeship Certification Training CORE & OSHA 10
- 93 Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation and Management
- 90 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
These exciting career pathways and data related to these in-demand industries can be explored in detail within My Colorado Journey, the state’s free and secure online academic and career exploration tool. From Agriculture, to Natural Resources and Energy, you can explore career pathways in Colorado, including career trajectories from entry-level to advanced, annual earnings and salary information, to training and educational opportunities throughout the state of Colorado.
Here are four powerful career pathways to learn about that will lead you toward making a real difference.
Careers That Advance Green Energy Sources
In Colorado, you can be part of the team that creates and distributes renewable energy like solar, wind, and geothermal. Whether you are installing solar panels, maintaining wind turbines, or advancing geothermal energy systems, you’re helping power our future sustainably.
Explore more:
- Renewable Energy Careers (My Colorado Journey)
- Solar Career Map (U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office)
- Wind Energy Career Map (U.S. Department of Energy)
- Geothermal Energy Careers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Check out Colorado’s latest Talent Pipeline Report for in-demand renewable energy occupations.
Careers That Support Green Buildings and Homes
Careers in this space focus on improving energy efficiency and electrifying homes—replacing gas-powered systems with cleaner, electric alternatives. Jobs like Energy Efficiency Technician, Energy Auditor, HVAC Technician, and Electrician are all part of climate solutions.
Explore more:
- Green Buildings IREC career map is a helpful tool
- Energy Efficiency Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program through the Colorado Energy Office
Careers That Support Sustainable Transportation
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, we need a skilled workforce to keep them running and to build the infrastructure they depend on. That includes EV mechanics, electricians, and charging station technicians. This growing industry offers exciting opportunities to support the shift to cleaner transportation.
Explore more:
- City of Denver’s E-mobility Career Map
- Denver-based nonprofit empowering women in EV careers, Women Who Charge
- Colorado Department of Transportation’s Office of Innovative Mobility
Careers That Support Food Systems & Conservation
Caring for our natural environment and food systems is one of the most direct ways to protect the planet. Whether you’re a sustainable farmer, a wildland firefighter, a biologist, or a water quality specialist, you can play a role in keeping Colorado’s ecosystems strong.
Explore more:
- Agriculture and Natural Resources career pathways (My Colorado Journey)
- Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture Workforce Development Program - Intern Applications are currently being accepted!
- Natural Resources Careers initiative helps job seekers understand how to apply for Federal jobs via USA Jobs and Colorado-specific opportunities.
- Conservation Corps across the state offers hands-on training and job experience:
This Earth Day, consider how your career can help advance climate solutions. Whether you’re building homes, growing food, generating energy, or maintaining EVs—you can make an impact. And Colorado is full of opportunities to get started.
Ready to take your next step? Explore resources at your local workforce center, discover resources and training programs, and apprenticeships to turn your passion into purpose. The planet will thank you.