Powering Progress: The Rise of Clean Transportation Jobs in Utah

Utah’s clean energy sector is growing rapidly, transforming the state’s workforce and creating opportunities in electric vehicle (EV) adoption and sustainable technologies. A report published on December 20, 2024 by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, titled “Driving Towards an Electric Future: Utah’s Clean Transportation Workforce,” highlights the significant progress and challenges in this critical sector.

Eric Albers, Senior Natural Resources Policy Analyst at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, authored the report. According to Albers' research, "Utah’s clean vehicle employment grew 17.9% between 2023 and 2024," reflecting an accelerating demand for skilled workers in EV-related industries.

Albers' study outlines how the state’s transportation landscape is evolving through fleet electrification, expanded EV infrastructure, and workforce training. "Bus fleets at Utah Transit Authority, Park City Transit, and Zion National Park are switching to electric vehicles," the report notes, showcasing the state’s commitment to reducing emissions and modernizing transit systems. By 2034, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) plans to convert over 200 buses to electric power, creating new opportunities for maintenance technicians and sustainability coordinators.

One major highlight of the report is the rapid growth of Utah’s EV charging network. From 2020 to 2024, public charging ports increased from 560 to over 2,000. "The expansion of Utah’s EV charging network requires an estimated 53,943 person-hours of labor," the report emphasizes. This growth underscores the need for skilled electricians, contractors, and technicians to support the infrastructure that makes EV adoption feasible. The availability of charging stations addresses "range anxiety," a common barrier for potential EV users. As Utah’s charging network continues to grow, it not only supports EV owners but also fuels job creation in the clean energy sector. The state’s proactive approach ensures that EV adoption becomes a realistic choice for individuals and businesses alike.

Preparing Utah’s workforce for this shift is a priority. Programs like Weber State University’s EV Boot Camp, a collaboration with the US Department of Energy, and a program that was called the best program of its type in the nation by Tammie Bostick with Utah Clean Cities, are equipping technicians with the skills needed to maintain and repair electric vehicles. "Maintenance technicians from fleets across Utah use this program to gain needed skills for EV maintenance," the report states. These training initiatives ensure that workers are ready to meet the demands of an evolving industry. Diversity and inclusion are also gaining attention. Programs like Utah Women in Trades encourage underrepresented groups to pursue careers in clean energy, broadening the talent pool and fostering innovation. "Building an inclusive workforce ensures that the benefits of clean transportation are shared by all Utahns," the report highlights.

Collaboration plays a crucial role in Utah’s clean transportation initiatives. Stadler Rail’s apprenticeship program, for example, trains employees in manufacturing zero-emission trains. Meanwhile, the ASPIRE Engineering Research Center at Utah State University is pioneering advancements in wireless charging technologies. "These collaborations are integral to maintaining Utah’s competitive edge in clean energy innovation," the report emphasizes.

Utah’s strategic geographic location enhances its role as a hub for clean transportation. Known as the "Crossroads of the West," the state handles a disproportionate share of freight traffic, with 23% of its highway use attributed to freight—nearly double the national average. This makes decarbonizing medium and heavy-duty vehicles (MHDVs) a critical focus. The Utah Division of Air Quality’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Framework supports fleet transitions to cleaner technologies, helping reduce the environmental impact of freight transportation.

While light-duty vehicle electrification is advancing rapidly, MHDVs pose unique challenges. These vehicles require advancements in battery technology, hydrogen fuel cells, and specialized infrastructure. "Dynamic wireless charging systems, such as those developed by the ASPIRE center, could revolutionize heavy-duty vehicle electrification," the report notes. These innovations are essential for reducing emissions in freight and industrial operations. Securing venture capital for underfunded industries, such as energy production and aerospace, remains another challenge. Programs like the Utah Innovation Fund aim to bridge this gap by offering seed funding and fostering connections between businesses and academia. "Continued investment in workforce training and infrastructure is vital for sustaining progress," the report underscores.

The economic implications of Utah’s clean energy transition are profound. According to the report, "clean transportation jobs constitute an important part of the larger clean energy sector," which grew three times faster than overall U.S. employment in 2024. By prioritizing clean energy infrastructure and workforce development, Utah is not only addressing environmental goals but also laying the foundation for long-term economic resilience. Collaboration among government agencies, private companies, and educational institutions is key to the success of Utah’s clean transportation initiatives. From electricians and EV technicians to fleet managers and sustainability coordinators, the opportunities in this sector are as diverse as they are promising. "Utah’s ability to adapt and invest strategically will determine its future success," the report states.

Utah’s clean transportation workforce is more than just a response to environmental challenges—it is a strategic investment in the state’s economic future. Through robust policies, innovative training programs, and collaborative efforts, Utah is driving toward a sustainable tomorrow. As the report aptly concludes, "The clean transportation workforce requires a mix of education, certification, and hands-on experience," and Utah is meeting that challenge with determination and vision. With continued support and investment, the state’s clean transportation sector is poised to become a cornerstone of Utah’s economy, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.