Massachusetts Grants Boost Geothermal Workforce Training

GDA and HEET partner to expand access to geothermal careers through new equipment and hands-on programs.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 4:54am

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A bold, abstract painting in soft earth tones depicting the complex underground geological structures and forces involved in geothermal energy, rendered in a style reminiscent of Hilma af Klint's scientific diagrams.State grants will help expand geothermal workforce training, building a pipeline of skilled workers to support the growth of clean energy infrastructure.Boston Today

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center has awarded grants to the Geothermal Drillers Association (GDA) and the Home Energy Efficiency Team (HEET) to help expand geothermal workforce training in the state. The funding will cover new drilling equipment and support hands-on training programs aimed at bringing more people into geothermal careers, with the first group of trainees expected to begin as early as fall 2026.

Why it matters

The initiative reflects a broader push to expand clean energy in Massachusetts while creating stable, skilled jobs. By building a stronger pipeline of geothermal workers, the program aims to help local businesses meet growing demand for geothermal projects and strengthen the state's local energy systems.

The details

GDA plans to turn its existing two-week geothermal drilling tutorial into a more structured training and certification program, opening doors for students, veterans and workers transitioning out of the gas industry. In the meantime, GDA is rolling out a two-week intensive program in the Greater Boston area this April, giving participants a chance to learn in the classroom and then step onto active drilling sites. Beyond training, GDA and HEET are also working to tackle broader industry challenges like labor shortages and limited equipment through their work with the Geothermal Market Capacity Coalition.

  • The first group of trainees could begin as early as fall 2026, depending on how quickly equipment is secured.
  • GDA is rolling out a two-week intensive program in the Greater Boston area this April.

The players

Geothermal Drillers Association (GDA)

A trade organization focused on growing and strengthening the geothermal workforce nationwide.

Home Energy Efficiency Team (HEET)

A non-profit organization that partners with GDA on geothermal workforce development efforts.

Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center

The state agency that awarded the grants to GDA and HEET to support geothermal workforce training.

Geothermal Market Capacity Coalition

A coalition that GDA and HEET are working with to tackle broader industry challenges like labor shortages and limited equipment.

Stacy Kinnaly

Executive director of GDA.

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What they’re saying

“As Massachusetts rises to the challenge of building a more affordable energy future, HEET is so delighted to be a part of this critical investment in a next generation of geothermal drillers.”

— Zeyneb Magavi, Executive Director, Home Energy Efficiency Team

“Geothermal projects and workforce development efforts can help drive economic growth by engaging new workers and reconnecting displaced workers with stable careers, while also strengthening local energy systems.”

— Stacy Kinnaly, Executive Director, Geothermal Drillers Association

“The grants will help support the organization's mission to grow and strengthen the geothermal workforce nationwide.”

— Brock Yordy, Cofounder and President, Geothermal Drillers Association

What’s next

Prospective students can visit GDA's Upcoming Offerings webpage or register interest in joining the basic geothermal driller training via a form by April 20.

The takeaway

The Massachusetts grants to GDA and HEET represent a strategic investment in building a robust geothermal workforce, which will be crucial for expanding clean energy infrastructure and creating stable, skilled jobs in the state.