THE ASCEND ENGINE’S WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Rev up your tech career.

Earn credits, build credentials, get certified, kickstart your climate job.

Real job opportunities in the real world

The NSF ASCEND Engine’s Workforce Development Program is building an equitable workforce by providing apprenticeships, internships, and work-based learning opportunities.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career and make a lasting impact? The ASCEND Engine Workforce Development Program is your gateway to opportunity, whether you’re a student, a career changer, or a professional looking to grow. With tailored training, hands-on internships, and connections to top employers in Colorado and Wyoming, this program is designed to help you achieve your goals and thrive in today’s competitive job market.

This is more than just a program — it’s your chance to gain real-world experience, build a network of support, and access pathways that lead to success in high-demand industries. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you — be the one who creates them.

We are committed to building a workforce as diverse as our region.

Our program is designed for:

‍Students: From high school to graduate level, including non-traditional learners.
Professionals: Career-switchers and mid-career professionals looking to upskill.
Underrepresented Talent: Rural, tribal, veteran and communities.

Submit your application TODAY >

Launch your career in high-demand industries.

Apply Now to explore internship and training opportunities tailored to your goals.

Open to U.S. and international submissions

Application period
‍OPEN through xx/xx/2025

Acceptance decisions
Announced by xx/xx/2025

Program duration
Summer 2025

Contact Us

Brian Johnston
Director of Workforce Development
CO-WY Engine
brian@co-wyengine.org

The ASCEND Engine’s Workforce Development Program provides learning pathways, knowledge, and certifications to launch new careers in climate resilience technology. The program is designed to be inclusive and accessible, and will offer:

120 subsidized internship positions

Providing hands-on experience for students and mid-career professionals.

Graduate-level SE coursework

Offering advanced education to prepare participants for high-demand roles.

Micro-certification courses and seminars

Delivered at industry partner locations to enhance practical skills.

Funding for advanced SE projects and competitions

Encouraging innovation and real-world application of skills.

Our impact, by the numbers

Since the summer of 2024, our program has mobilized talent and tech:

28 internships

earning over $116,000 for participating MSU Denver students

10 organizations

hired interns in the summer of 2024

36% first-generation

college students

25% Hispanic

participants

The ASCEND Workforce Development Program is propelled by Innosphere’s NSF-funded CO-WY Climate Resilience Engine and our premier global partners.

Apply for 2025 opportunties

Areas of study:

Internship and Apprenticeship Programs

Hands-on, paid opportunities for students and early-career professionals to gain experience in high-demand fields like climate technology, renewable energy, and systems engineering.

Systems Engineering Workforce Program

Addressing Colorado's shortage of skilled systems engineers, funded through the Opportunity Now Colorado grant.

Micro-Certification and Skill Development

Participants acquire technical and professional skills aligned with specific employer needs.

Youth Engagement Programs

Inspiring the next generation of climate workforce talent through foundational skills training and introductions to climate resilience opportunities.

Career Transition and Upskilling Programs

Tailored programs for career-switchers and displaced workers to transition into high-growth fields.

Industry-Aligned Training Programs

Designed in collaboration with employers to meet immediate and long-term climate tech industry workforce needs.

Workforce Engagement for Rural and Tribal Communities

Learning opportunities tailored for tribal communities across rural Wyoming and Colorado.

Mentorship and Career Coaching

Building community and providing support throughout career journeys to ensure long-term success.

Get started today:

Explore Opportunities:

Check out our current internship openings in fields like climate technology, engineering, renewable energy, and more.

Apply Today:

Submit your application through our easy online process. Be sure to highlight your skills, goals, and what you hope to gain from the experience.

Get Matched:

Our partners at PeopleCaddie will work to match you with an internship that aligns with your interests and career aspirations.

Become a partner

Shape the climate tech workforce of tomorrow by offering internships, mentoring participants, or sponsoring programs. Contact us to learn how your organization can contribute.

By 2029, the CO-WY Engine will establish a leading climate technology workforce ecosystem, enhancing job quality and accessibility through industry-led partnerships, comprehensive educational pathways, and community-driven innovation.

22K

NEW JOBS

1.3K

internships/
apprenticeships

136

post docs

400

STUDENTS TRAINED
IN SYSTEMS
ENGINEERING
OVER 10 YEARS