DeGette introduces bill to build and retain experienced energy workforce

Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID) 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.

“Colorado is home to the third highest number of EWP enrollees in the country – potentially adding hundreds of positions upon the expansion of this program,” Rep. DeGette said. “By utilizing this experienced workforce, we’re not only tapping into a vast pool of knowledge and expertise but ensuring the continued success of critical initiatives within DOE. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort alongside Rep. Fulcher to ensure our nation’s workforce and energy sector remains strong.”

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.

“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,” said Rep. Russ Fulcher. “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.”

“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," said Cito Vanegas, CEO & President of NEW Solutions. "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:

• address ‘brain-drain’ issues;
• utilize former employees and other experienced workers for projects, seasonal work, or help on a longer-term basis;
• provide opportunities for newer agency staff to learn institutional knowledge from returning workers;
• offer mentorship opportunities for all staff at various levels;
• provide an intergenerational work culture; and
• plan for and manage workforce needs by:
  • creating flexibility to address workforce gaps and intermittent needs; and
  • adding another tool to DOE’s workforce toolbox.

Read the full bill text here.