Local Jurisdictions Can Host a CivicSpark Fellow Thanks to I-REN Program

May 11, 2023

On April 5, 2023, SBCOG Staff introduced the I-REN Fellowship Program to the SBCOG Board of Directors. The I-REN Fellowship Program is Workforce Education and Training initiative. It is a partnership with CivicSpark, an AmeriCorps program dedicated to building capacity for local governments that helps address energy efficiency and environmental goals. Cities and the County can now request placement of a CivicSpark fellow for a year. There are up to 13 CivicSpark fellows available to the San Bernardino County Region at no cost to participating host agencies. The I-REN fellowship program provides an opportunity to nurture the next generation of professionals in the energy sector and will help the host agencies to advance local energy efficiency initiatives.

The Fellows must have a minimum of an associate’s degree and be emerging leaders who are looking to gain professional experience within the community while creating meaningful impact. The fellows will be providing approximately 1,700 hours to the host agency, which includes 1,300 to 1,400 hours for energy efficiency-related projects and 300-400 hours for professional growth and learning opportunities. This 11-month program will start in September 2023.

To host a Fellow to contribute to the workforce development initiative, please contact Cheryl Chesnut, SBCOG’s Energy Program Manager at cchesnut@gosbcta.com.