Conference: Experimental Learning for Novel and Emerging Technologies (ExLENT) for Offshore Wind Energy Pathways

Old Dominion University (ODU), partnered with Dominion Energy, Southeastern Wind Coalition, Hampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC), and Centura College, proposes to collaborate with other regional industry and academia to host a one-day Offshore Wind Workforce Conference at ODU in Norfolk, Virginia in 2024. Keynote speakers from industry and academia will present and discuss current and forecasted offshore wind workforce and training needs and issues. Multiple subject matter expert panel discussions from industry and academia will discuss these and other important topics that are relevant to this industry, including: needed offshore wind workforce skillsets, STEM curriculum requirements, emerging trends in related technology, and research and development needs. This conference will be open to all traditional and non-traditional students at ODU as well as other regional training institutions and community colleges. A workforce development conference specifically focused on offshore wind will have significant positive impacts on regional companies, ODU students and faculty, and the community at large and will increase industry, academia, and government partnerships. It will also provide an opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest industry trends, technologies, best practices, and career opportunities. It will contribute to a workforce pipeline that promotes the participation of women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented minorities. Attendees will be able to connect with potential employers, mentors, and peers, opening doors for collaboration, job opportunities, and partnerships. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.