News at 4Cs

Cape Cod Community College Partnering with Vineyard Wind for “Offshore Wind 101” Course

Cape Cod Community College is partnering with Vineyard Wind, developer of the nation’s first large-scale offshore wind project, to launch a non-credit College course that will address global and state trends, local career and supply chain opportunities, and technology basics related to offshore wind. The course, “Offshore Wind 101: Energy, Climate and Jobs,” is offered through the College’s Center for Corporate and Professional Education (CCAPE) is set to begin with two offerings starting June 4, 2019 and June 6, 2019.

Offshore Wind 101 is designed for students, business and manufacturing professionals, entrepreneurs, and workers in marine, construction, welding, and other trades. A two-session pilot course is scheduled for June 4 and 6 at the College’s main campus in West Barnstable. High school and College students who enroll will be eligible to participate in a free boat tour of the Block Island Wind Farm, the nation’s first offshore wind project.

“We know that the future of energy in this region and beyond will rely heavily on offshore wind,” said John L. Cox, President of Cape Cod Community College. “With the prospect of multiple offshore wind project developers leasing sites near our shores, our College and the residents of the Cape and Islands are uniquely positioned to lead this next phase of energy growth in our country. We are proud to partner with Vineyard Wind to offer this important introductory course, which will lay the foundation for the educational and career pathways that will come with these projects.”

In the Offshore Wind 101 pilot’s first session, participants will learn about wind energy fundamentals, why Cape Wind failed, and how a new generation of local projects will succeed. The second, which focuses on career opportunities and other benefits to be created as offshore wind projects move forward in southeastern Massachusetts and beyond, will feature a guest speaker offering an inside look at Vineyard Wind.

“The creation of the offshore wind industry in the US offers broad economic opportunities for the region. Community colleges are well-positioned to provide an important pipeline for local people to play a part in growing the industry locally,” said Erich Stephens, Chief Development Officer of Vineyard Wind. “Offshore wind is creating jobs across many sectors in Southeastern Massachusetts. We’re excited to support Cape Cod Community College’s efforts to connect people to the industry and provide a pathway to those careers for Cape residents.”

Offshore Wind 101 is taught by Chris Powicki, a member of the College faculty since 2007. The CCAPE registration fee is $49 for two 2-hour sessions. Information and registration are available at the College’s website.