House of Energy

A concert that offered a "workforce development experience"

Music and energy, buddies since birth. The two inseparable entities illustrated that bond at a concert for young professionals considering the energy sector.

As the energy industry prepared for significant hiring needs over the next decade, the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD) partnered with the National Urban League and its local affiliate, Chicago Urban League, to host Energy Up Chicago, a concert and career connection experience at the House of Blues on Wednesday, October 14.

The free concert paired live music with career exploration for Chicagoland residents ages 18 to 35. Attendees spoke with energy employers in a high-energy social environment while identifying practical entry points based on their interests and experience. The event came at a time when the industry was navigating hiring demands driven by technology shifts and infrastructure investment.

Featuring BabyChiefDoIt, Star Bandz, Mother Nature, and Power 92 DJs Pharris and Nehpets, Energy Up Chicago was presented through the Urban Energy Jobs program, led by the National Urban League and CEWD. The program connected energy employers and local communities to provide training, mentorship, and exposure to available roles. The Chicago Urban League contributed the relationships and local insight needed to reach Chicagoland residents and share relevant workforce resources.

About 5% of Illinois’ workforce was employed in the energy sector in 2024, highlighting the industry’s important role across the state. Over the last four years, the Urban Energy Jobs program placed nearly 500 people into energy careers in Chicago, Houston, Louisville, New Orleans, and St. Louis. Those job connections generated more than $20 million in economic mobility, with participants earning an average starting wage of $21 an hour. At the concert, attendees met Chicago Urban League representatives and local employers to learn more about the program and introductory events in the weeks following the concert.

The concert was produced by Impact Data & Events with talent booked by Live Nation Urban. Admission was free, but advance registration was required. Career seekers and job changers could register to receive a QR code for entry into the culture and community career event at www.makeanimpactconcerts.org/chicago.