SUNSET PARK — More than 100 environmentally conscious community members, including those seeking green employment, attended an offshore wind event held at the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help the afternoon of Nov. 16.

The purpose of the offshore wind open house and union apprenticeship awareness day was to learn about offshore wind development in New York State and pursue entry into union training and apprenticeships, which lead to promising careers. 

Offshore wind power, or energy taken from the force of the winds at sea transformed into electricity and supplied into the electricity network onshore, is slated to play an important role in meeting New York’s goal of 70% renewable electricity by 2030, and 100% zero-emission electricity by 2040.

“Today is about trying to spread awareness regarding solid union jobs, career paths with good pay, benefits and setting people on track for success,” explained Santos Rodriguez, chief of staff at the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. “And at the same time, lift up our communities.”