Highland Electric Fleets and GRID Alternatives (GRID) have partnered to create a workforce development training program focused on all aspects of electric school bus operations.

The partnership aims to create a curriculum that includes critical mechanical and safety training. Together, they also hope to make renewable energy technology and education more accessible to traditionally underserved communities through the program.

"At Highland, our top priority is student well-being, while also investing in clean energy jobs and building infrastructure to support our partner communities," said Duncan McIntyre, CEO of Highland Electric Fleets. "This partnership with GRID Alternatives will help develop a workforce that brings care and expertise to a growing, innovative industry."

Preparing for the Future

With the growing number of electric school bus fleets nationwide, creating next-generation job training opportunities in a modernized transportation sector is vital.

Highland and GRID will help ensure that school district transportation, operations and maintenance teams have the expertise to support and sustain their electric school bus fleets with a priority on safety through comprehensive training.

GRID will deliver a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the demands of electric school bus fleets in coordination with ChargerHelp! 

"GRID Alternatives is excited to partner with Highland Electric Fleets on its initiative to support school systems nationwide by electrifying their school bus fleets,” said Adwale OgunBadejo, VP of workforce development at GRID. “As GRID continues to work to provide access to clean mobility, the timing of this initiative is perfect. Working alongside our trusted partner ChargerHelp!, GRID will provide foundational training, knowledge, and safety awareness regarding zero-emission vehicles to drivers, mechanics, and other community stakeholders that Highland Electric Fleets is serving."

Training Goals

The training program will cover a range of essential skills, including bus operation, maintenance, and safety protocols.

Targeted education for drivers, mechanics and support personnel allows the initiative to ensure that school districts and their teams are fully prepared to manage electric school buses confidently and carefully, fostering a safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation future.

The collaboration will equip stakeholders with the information and understanding needed to safely operate and maintain electric school buses.

OgunBadejo added: "By prioritizing communities that bear the disproportionate burden of diesel exhaust and on-road air pollution, the transition to electric school buses can contribute to correcting historically inequitable practices. An equitable transition to electric school buses can boost economies and create meaningful, well-paying jobs in many areas nationwide. This aligns with our mission, and we are honored to be a part of this transformative project."