In our latest video, the Carbon Action Alliance (CAA) is excited to share the story of the Capturing Better Futures Initiative—a unique partnership between a carbon management project developer, a labor union, and a local school board in Vernon Parish, Louisiana.
In an era marked by the urgent need to curb emissions and pave the way for a clean energy future, effective community engagement has emerged as essential to building successful low-carbon energy projects. The Capturing Better Futures Initiative is a testament to what can be achieved when stakeholders come together to prioritize community needs, empower a local workforce, and commit to a shared vision for the future.
“When I was first approached about the program, I wasn’t really sure about carbon capture and sequestration, … but the key thing that I heard them say was, ‘student opportunity.’”
– Lisa Lohman, Vernon Parish Schools’ Curriculum and CTE Director
It is crucial to recognize that at the core of the clean energy transition are workers. Programs like the Capturing Better Futures Initiative in Vernon Parish are needed to build the future workforce and deploy emissions-reducing projects, enabling us to reach our midcentury net-zero climate goals.
We invite you to watch our video and see firsthand the impact of the Capturing Better Futures Initiative. By highlighting this success story, we aim to foster a broader understanding of carbon management’s potential and encourage further dialogue and collaboration.
About the Capturing Better Futures Initiative
The Capturing Better Futures Initiative is a joint partnership between CapturePoint Solutions, the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA), and the Vernon Parish School District.
These partners worked together to launch a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway for 30 students from Vernon Parish schools for its inaugural class. These students will acquire skills focused on pipeline construction, welding, plumbing, steam fitting, and related trades critical to building infrastructure for carbon management and other energy projects.
Beyond skilled training and education, the Capturing Better Futures Initiative extends its commitment by offering students who complete the program an opportunity to join the registered apprenticeship program provided by the UA. This apprenticeship provides ongoing educational training and comprehensive benefits, ensuring family-sustaining wages and a well-rounded approach to career development.
Get Involved
Want to learn more about the Carbon Action Alliance and our work on carbon management? Sign up for our newsletter and visit our webpage to learn more.
Contact Alejandro Calderon at [email protected] to discuss opportunities to collaborate and highlight labor voices in the energy transition.