National Governors Association and the National League of Cities Launch EV Workforce Collaborative
The National Governors Association (NGA) and the National League of Cities have joined forces to launch the State and Local Collaborative to Support an Inclusive Workforce for the Electric Vehicle Charging Sector, known as the EV Workforce Collaborative, powered by the Siemens Foundation. This initiative brought together a National Taskforce and multiple Working Groups that met over the course of two years to address the needs and opportunities within the emerging EV charging workforce. The groups announced the news on November 24, 2025.
The EV Workforce Collaborative has now released a comprehensive resource hub, offering a suite of tools and guidance designed to reflect the priorities identified by Taskforce and Working Group members. Each resource highlights lessons learned throughout the collaborative process and provides actionable strategies for states and localities aiming to cultivate a resilient, equitable, and future-ready EV workforce.
This hub serves as a living repository, supporting policymakers, workforce development professionals, and industry stakeholders as they work to build inclusive pathways in the fast-growing electric vehicle sector. It will be updated regularly to ensure that it remains relevant and continues to provide practical guidance for the evolving needs of the EV workforce.
By centralizing these insights and resources, the EV Workforce Collaborative aims to empower communities to prepare for a sustainable and equitable transition to electric mobility, ensuring that the growth of the EV industry benefits workers, local economies, and the environment alike.
EV Workforce Myth-Busting by the NGA
By 2028, U.S. electric vehicle manufacturers are projected to produce approximately 4.7 million EVs annually. This rapid growth is driving demand for charging stations, infrastructure, batteries, supply chain operations and more. Governors across the country are assessing workforce needs to ensure the EV sector supports economic growth, strengthens local industries, and expands opportunities for residents. Meeting this demand requires a larger, highly skilled workforce with well-paying roles accessible through community colleges, apprenticeships, and workforce training programs nationwide.
Persistent myths about EV careers, however, have created barriers for students, job seekers, educators, and employers, leaving talent untapped. One common misconception is that EV jobs are only engineering or highly technical roles. In reality, most positions are hands-on and do not require an engineering degree. Opportunities span electrical work, assembly, automotive maintenance, battery technology, and advanced manufacturing. Many roles, including battery technicians, machinists, assemblers, industrial production managers, electricians, and power-line installers, are learned through on-the-job experience or apprenticeships. Growth in charging infrastructure is also creating demand for skilled tradespeople who maintain and repair EV systems.
Another myth is that a college degree is required to enter the EV industry. Many high-demand, well-paying roles can be accessed through short-term training programs, apprenticeships, and community college pathways. Competency-based training and industry certifications allow job seekers to gain practical skills efficiently, reducing the time and cost associated with traditional higher education. Programs like Michigan’s EV Jobs Academy, North Carolina’s EVeryone Charging Forward, and Ohio’s Super RAPIDs initiative show that flexible, accessible pathways can prepare workers for in-demand positions without a four-year degree.
Diversity in the EV workforce is growing, with initiatives such as Rosie’s Girls in Philadelphia and Women Who Charge in Denver introducing underrepresented populations to EV careers. ChargerHelp’s SmarterHelp program also trains workers from varied backgrounds, including youth and individuals with prior records, for EV technical roles. These efforts ensure the workforce reflects the communities it serves.
Skills gained in the EV sector are highly transferable across industries, including traditional auto manufacturing, clean energy, solar, AI, and infrastructure. Community colleges and training providers are integrating these skills into curricula, enabling workers to upskill and explore multiple career paths.
