Fueling Careers: The Future of Hispanic Talent in the Energy Industry
As the energy industry evolves in the U.S., so does its workforce. From the solar industry in the sunny Southwest to offshore rigs in the Gulf, Hispanic workers are not simply participating; they’re leading in the energy workforce. The Hispanic community is one of the fastest-growing and most important segments of the U.S. workforce, particularly in the energy sector. Their role is increasingly important to the nation’s economic growth, energy evolution, and national security.
The U.S. Hispanic Workforce is a Powerhouse
Hispanic workers have become a powerhouse in driving the economy. In 2023, nearly one in five U.S. workers was Hispanic. That number continues to increase in the energy sector as Hispanics made up 31% of all new energy jobs. Over the past two decades, this group has been the fastest-growing part of America’s workforce, growing almost 70% compared to just 6% for non-Hispanic workers. The Hispanic workforce is showing not only growth, but momentum in the energy sector. Also, Hispanic households significantly contribute to the overall economy. If the U.S. Hispanic economy were measured on its own, it would rank as the fifth-largest GDP in the world, above both France and India.
Hispanic Participation in the Energy Sector
Hispanic talent is contributing across various energy sectors. While they currently make up around 18% of the overall energy workforce, their influence is seen the most in clean energy, construction, and installation.
In renewables, especially solar and wind, Hispanic representation often exceeds the national workforce average:
- Hispanic workers accounted for 33% of all new clean energy jobs in 2023
- 23% of solar jobs and 22% of wind jobs are held by Hispanic workers
- In construction and trade roles related to clean energy development, Hispanic workers play critical roles in energy development.
In dispatchable (available 24/7) energy operations, Hispanic workers play a role:
- Hispanic workers comprise around 18% oil and natural gas roles, comparable to the national average.
- However, they remain underrepresented in nuclear energy, where their share is closer to 15%
A Path Ahead for Hispanic Talent in Energy
The Hispanic population has provided substantial economic growth for the nation, representing the world’s fifth-largest GDP. Hispanic workers have rapidly joined the energy workforce, showing determination and drive to enhance the nation’s access to affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy. With the demand for energy increasing rapidly due to large energy consumers such as AI data centers, the Hispanic workforce has opportunities to continue to grow and impact the energy industry.
