City of Seattle, WA
11/22/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/22/2024 16:22
From Clean Energy Training to Boeing: Mateo’s Success Story
The City of Seattle's Clean Energy and Construction Training Program continues to create powerful impacts in our community.
[Link]Mateo and Sphere Solar Founder Edwin Wanji
In 2023, local solar energy nonprofit organization, Sphere Solar Energy, received a grant to support their Clean Energy Career Pathway program, which provides interactive, hands-on experience learning about clean energy components, system assembly, electricity fundamentals, and business functions such as how to assess solar feasibility, size a system, and calculate electricity consumption.
Today, we spotlight Mateo's remarkable journey with Sphere Solar. From clean energy training to aerospace innovation, he is demonstrating how sustainable energy programs can launch diverse career paths in unexpected directions.
Q: Can you Tell Us About Your New Role at Boeing?
Mateo: As a Manufacturing Engineer at Boeing, I get to design and optimize production processes for aircraft and aerospace components, ensuring they are efficient, high-quality, and safe. Collaborating with cross-functional teams is key, as we integrate designs, tooling, and lean manufacturing practices into our workflows.
Every day, I focus on continuous improvement, automation, and troubleshooting to enhance production output and meet our customers' evolving needs. The pace is fast, and the challenges are real, but that's what makes it exciting!
Q: What was your Experience with the Sphere Solar Clean Energy Career Pathways (CECP) program?
Mateo: The Clean Energy Career Pathways (CECP) program opened doors I never imagined. It connected me with leaders in the renewable energy space and gave me firsthand experience with clean technologies and industries across Washington State.
I honed my public speaking skills, built compelling presentations, and collaborated with stakeholders to communicate the technical benefits of clean energy. Best of all, I joined a passionate, close-knit community dedicated to ensuring clean technology and opportunities are shared equitably. The energy is both figuratively and literally contagious!
[Link]Mayor Bruce Harrell, accompanied by the 2023 graduates of Sphere Solars Clean Energy Career Pathways program. Mateo is standing to the right of the Mayor in the blue and orange shirt.
Q: How did the Internship Help You Land Your Position at Boeing?
Mateo: My internship at Sphere Solar Energy gave me the confidence to step into any room whether I was presenting to large crowds, meeting professionals, or interviewing potential program candidates. I met leaders from the City of Seattle, business owners, and entrepreneurs. It was intimidating at first, but over time, I built the courage to approach anyone with curiosity and a smile.
Dedication, persistence, and preparation were key lessons I learned. When opportunities knock, you're ready! The support I received through resume workshops and hearing the stories of professionals overcoming challenges made me feel empowered and prepared to pursue my career at Boeing.
Q: What is the Role Sphere Solar Has Played in Your Career and Life?
[Link]Mateo with Mayor Harrell receiving his diploma for completing the program.
Mateo: Joining Sphere Solar Energy in my senior year of college was one of the best decisions I ever made. As an engineer deeply concerned about climate and social issues, I found a space where I could contribute to distributing technology, knowledge, and opportunity to underserved communities.
After graduating from the program in 2023, I stayed on part-time leading CECP lessons, building hands-on training modules, installing solar panels, and contributing to various exciting projects. Sphere Solar Energy feels like family, and it's been the perfect launchpad for my career in clean energy. I'm excited for the next chapter and grateful to everyone who's supported me along the way.
Continuing the Clean Energy Mission
Mateo's success highlights the CECP program's broader impact: creating versatile professionals who can bridge traditional industries with clean energy innovation. His journey from solar energy training to aerospace engineering demonstrates the program's role in building adaptable, forward-thinking leaders for Seattle's evolving workforce.
More About the City's Clean Energy and Construction Training Program:
Earlier this year, the City announced an additional $2.4 million in grants to support organizations working to create equitable access to clean energy training and career pathways. The funds have the potential to prepare upwards of 260 workers for construction and clean energy jobs by providing workers with pre-apprenticeship training and job readiness support. Learn more about the 2024 grantees.