Coal Transition Worker

The goals of the Office of Just Transition are to: empower workers and their families to plan early for future success, prepare a detailed program to help displaced workers build skills, find good jobs, or start businesses, explore strategies to protect family economic security through the transition, and encourage the federal government to lead with a national strategy for energy transition workers.

Are you a worker or the family member of a worker preparing for future coal facility closures? 

Please reach out to our office for personalized support and assistance with transition planning. We can help connect you with resources and opportunities in the community and with our office. Our goal is to walk beside you in support of your transition goals. 

Contact Information:

Shelley Siman
Email: shelley.siman@state.co.us

OJT is working alongside many individuals and organizations that can address  the unique needs and concerns of coal workers. All services and contacts are confidential; your information and conversations will not be shared unless you have given permission to do so for further assistance and resources.

Would you like to help fellow workers through this time?  OJT is developing a peer coaching program.  Please reach out to stay connected or get involved.  Email Shelley Siman: shelley.siman@state.co.us

Transitioning mine worker Matt Cooper and his wife Kristine Cooper have launched their own business - High Altitude Geothermal LLC.  Over the next four years, the company plans to employ five new hires. Matt and Kristine have been working closely with OJT’s Coal Transition Navigator, Jennifer Pieroni, to identify opportunities for their business. According to the Coopers, Pieroni has been instrumental in connecting them with industry experts and business resources. "We would not have been able to move so quickly in this start-up if it weren’t for Jennifer. She is phenomenal!" said Matt Cooper. 

Among the resources that the Coopers have accessed are through their participation in the Rural Jump Start Program. Through the RJS program, businesses can qualify for relief from the state business income tax, the sales and use tax, and county/municipal business personal property taxes. Qualified employees also receive relief from their state personal income tax. Through June 30, 2025, businesses located in Tier One Coal Transition committees, like Moffat County, are eligible for up to $40,000 in operating grants and $5,000 per qualified new hire. 

Read the full press release.