Pittsburgh Gateways has partnered with Penn College’s Clean Energy Center (CEC) to co-develop a workforce development hub, training lab, and community engagement space in Homewood, set to open in early 2025.

Karen Benner joined Pittsburgh Gateways this spring as Director of Building Performance Programs to lead the partnership with Penn College, and to promote workforce development and training, contractor growth and apprenticeships, and community outreach and awareness.  The mission of the Pittsburgh CEC is to teach how to reduce energy consumption in homes and communities, while also improving comfort and safety.  Programs will focus on building performance training, providing in-demand skills and certifications for both residential renovations and new home construction careers.

Karen has been working in the residential construction industry for over 25-years, earned professional accreditations in sustainability in 2009, and was named National Assocation of Home Builders’ Best-In-Green Young Professional of the Year in 2015. Prior to joining Pittsburgh Gateways, she spent 5-years as an independent consultant, helping contractors improve profit margins and reduce risk through better project management tools and operational efficiency.

“I am thrilled to have joined Pittsburgh Gateways in this new role, and for the opportunity to collaborate with all regional partners working at the intersection of energy efficient & healthy housing, affordable home ownership and environmental justice. The Penn College Clean Energy Center team has been fantastic to work with, and we look forward to a successful partnership maximizing our impact for current and future generations of our residents.”

For the full story, read the press release from Penn College here.  For more information, or to get involved, contact Karen here.