The EV charger buildout has a weak link – NYC is going after it

New York is putting more money behind a key piece of the EV transition that often gets overlooked: the people who keep chargers running.

The Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation (BNYDC) just landed $450,000 from the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to build and launch a workforce training program focused on maintaining and repairing EV charging infrastructure. The program will be delivered in partnership with the clean energy training and development company SmarterHelp, marking the company’s first initiative in New York City.

The funding is part of a broader $5 million NYPA effort to support workforce programs tied to New York State’s clean energy transition. Training is expected to kick off later this year at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, once a dedicated “Smart Lab” outfitted with EV chargers and training tools is up and running.

Participants will get hands-on training in electrical systems and codes, energy fundamentals, and EV charging equipment maintenance and repair. The program also provides industry certification preparation, with graduates earning recognized credentials and connecting with job placement opportunities through BNYDC and SmarterHelp.