FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, March 20
CONTACT: Marisa Melton, (208) 743 - 1388, marisa.melton@mail.house.gov
U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher Introduces Legislation to Build and Retain an Experienced Energy Workforce
WASHINGTON D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (R-ID) and Congresswomen. Diana DeGette (D-CO) introduced a bill to direct the Secretary of Energy to establish the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Experienced Worker Program (EWP). This program would provide grants to non-profit organizations eligible to use the talents of U.S. individuals aged 55 or older in other programs administered by the Secretary.
“Given all the workforce challenges happening in our federal energy department and in the energy industry, it is vital we find all avenues for expertise from those who dedicated their careers with the Department of Energy,” Congressman Fulcher said. “Having adequate resources to fulfill the technical and other needs by DOE is important as we encourage them to explore many of the vast domestic energy sources available.”
The EWP would allow DOE to administer programs like those at the Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Interior, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service, and other federal agencies. Under the Older Americans Act, these agencies can place skilled and experienced workers aged 55 or older in agency positions.
"As we continue to fortify our nation's energy future, we must also recognize the invaluable expertise of our seasoned workforce,” Congresswoman DeGette said. “Investing in our skilled professionals is not just prudent, it's essential for the prosperity and sustainability of our energy sector.”
“For over 25 years, the Experienced Worker Program has connected experienced professionals with federal agencies providing cost-effective talent, mentorship, and expertise, while filling essential workforce needs," Cito Vanegas, CEO & President of NEW Solutions said. "The program quickly becomes invaluable to an agency and their mission-critical projects. I commend Representatives DeGette and Fulcher for their leadership in bringing the Experienced Worker Program to the Department of Energy.”
This bill would enable DOE to:
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address ‘brain-drain’ issues;
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utilize former employees and other experienced workers for projects, seasonal work, or help on a longer-term basis;
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provide opportunities for newer agency staff to learn institutional knowledge from returning workers;
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offer mentorship opportunities for all staff at various levels;
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provide an intergenerational work culture; and
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plan for and manage workforce needs by:
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creating flexibility to address workforce gaps and intermittent needs; and
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adding another tool to DOE’s workforce toolbox.