Clarkson’s CUHEAT Program Graduates First Cohort of Clean Energy Trainees
Clarkson University’s Home Energy Awareness Training (CUHEAT) program is celebrating a major milestone with the successful completion of its very first participants. Designed to prepare individuals for careers in the fast-growing clean energy and weatherization sector, CUHEAT has already proven itself as a valuable pathway to both personal advancement and regional workforce development.
With the first group of participants having completed their training, the program is now welcoming new applications for its next cohort and still has room for more motivated candidates.
The CUHEAT program was created with support from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to address the pressing need for skilled workers in residential energy efficiency. Offered at no cost to participants, the initiative combines online and in-person training to provide flexible, accessible opportunities for people interested in joining the clean energy workforce.
Students begin by completing a series of foundational online courses, which introduce the core concepts of home energy efficiency, auditing, and systems. After this, they move into one of three specialized tracks: Residential Energy Auditor, Weatherization Specialist, or Heating Systems Technician. Each specialization builds directly on the introductory coursework and allows participants to develop targeted, career-ready skills.
A hallmark of the CUHEAT program is its blend of academic learning with practical, real-world application. Participants also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in real work settings with experienced professionals. Thanks to partnerships with HVAC contractors—GRO Energy Solutions and Holmes Mechanical—students from the first CUHEAT cohort gained invaluable, hands-on experience applying their new skills to real home energy projects.
In recognition of the time and commitment required, participants receive a $500 stipend upon successful completion of the training, easing financial burdens and encouraging full engagement with the program.
The first CUHEAT students have now successfully completed this entire process, marking an important achievement for both the participants and the program itself. Graduates have reported increased confidence in their technical abilities, and local contractors and energy services providers have expressed enthusiasm about the new pool of talent being developed through Clarkson’s initiative.
“Participating in the CU-HEAT program equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of energy efficiency principles and practical auditing techniques,” said Beata Tatenda Moyo, one of the first participants. “The combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience strengthened my technical skills and deepened my commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions.”
Program coordinators note that the success of the inaugural group establishes a strong foundation and demonstrates the program’s ability to deliver meaningful results in a relatively short period of time.
CUHEAT is currently accepting new applications. The application process is simple, beginning with a quick online form, followed by review and acceptance into the program. Because space is limited, early applications are strongly encouraged and can be found here: https://sites.clarkson.edu/cuheat/.
Clarkson University looks forward to welcoming the next wave of trainees who are ready to build their futures in clean energy and help drive positive change for communities across New York.
