DANVERS — Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School (Essex Tech) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $1 million grant from a private donor to support the launch of its new Center for Renewable Energy. The two-year grant will fund infrastructure and program development for an ambitious new initiative that prepares students for careers in the rapidly growing clean energy sector.
Located on Essex Tech’s 166-acre campus, the Center for Renewable Energy will serve both high school and adult learners as a regional hub for hands-on training in renewable energy technologies. The Center will feature state-of-the-art equipment and curriculum focused on solar photovoltaic systems, small wind turbines, heat pump technologies, geothermal, biomass, renewable natural gas, and electric vehicle systems.
“This generous grant allows us to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application,” said Bonnie Carr, Director of Workforce Development. With this support, Essex Tech students will gain critical experience with modern, high-efficiency energy systems, helping them launch successful careers in clean energy.”
The Center will integrate renewable energy components into technical programs such as HVAC-R, Electrical, Plumbing, Arboriculture, Environmental Science, and more. Strategic partnerships with organizations like Crowley Wind Services, SAFE (Salem Alliance for the Environment), and North Shore Community College further enhance the scope and impact of the initiative.
In addition to equipment upgrades and new training modules, the grant will fund infrastructure expansion critical to supporting the school’s clean energy curriculum and alignment with industry standards.
“As the demand for green energy solutions grows, Essex Tech is committed to training the next generation of technicians, engineers, and environmental leaders,” said Heidi Riccio, Superintendent-Director. We are sincerely appreciative of this funding opportunity as we continue to grow and increase access to in-demand careers.
The Center for Renewable Energy marks a significant step in Essex Tech’s ongoing sustainability and workforce readiness investment. The district remains focused on preparing students to meet the needs of a changing energy landscape—locally, regionally, and globally.
To learn more about Essex Tech visit www.essexnorthshore.org.
