#USA #Clean Energy #Lancaster #First Public Hydrogen #Ernesto Medrano

Ernesto Medrano Joins First Public Hydrogen Board

First Public Hydrogen (FPH2), a pioneering initiative in sustainable energy, has recently welcomed Ernesto Medrano to its Board of Directors. Known for his extensive experience spanning over thirty years in labor advocacy and community workforce development, Medrano is poised to play a significant role in shaping FPH2’s future initiatives and enhancing its commitment to clean energy solutions.

Ernesto Medrano currently serves as the Executive Secretary of the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building and Construction Trades Council, a powerful coalition representing more than 160,000 skilled workers across various trades. Throughout his career, Medrano has been an advocate for Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) and Community Workforce Agreements, which are essential in prioritizing collective bargaining and equitable job access. His efforts have made a tangible impact on numerous high-profile construction and clean energy projects across California, collaborating with organizations like LA Metro Transit and the ARCHES Hydrogen Alliance.

R. Rex Parris, the Chairman of First Public Hydrogen, praised Medrano's invaluable expertise, stating, "His leadership in organizing labor standards for transformative infrastructure projects makes him an ideal partner as we scale hydrogen deployment across California." This sentiment reflects FPH2’s commitment to leveraging Medrano’s insight to deepen community ties while fostering sustainable job creation.

Medrano’s previous tenure as the Representative for Orange County has seen him champion successful initiatives in cities such as Anaheim and Irvine, effectively turning the region into a hub for union activism. His career began with the United Farm Workers, transitioned through the AFL-CIO, and later led him to the Teamsters, further showcasing his dedication to labor rights and community growth.

In his statement upon joining the Board, Medrano highlighted the potential of hydrogen as a transformative energy source. He remarked, "Hydrogen holds enormous promise for the future of clean energy and job creation. I'm honored to join FPH2's board and help advance a model that pairs decarbonization with opportunity, equity, and strong labor standards."

Medrano’s background adds profound depth to FPH2’s mission. Raised in East Los Angeles and having served in the Marine Corps Reserve during the 1980s, his story embodies resilience and dedication to community upliftment. Recognized for his exceptional contributions, he has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, underscoring his influence in the field of labor advocacy.

First Public Hydrogen is breaking new ground as the United States' first public hydrogen utility, aimed at enabling a seamless connection between hydrogen producers and end-users through a transparent and efficient model. As a Joint Powers Authority (JPA), FPH2 focuses on hydrogen procurement, delivery, and infrastructure development, assisting municipalities and private companies to transition towards cleaner energy alternatives. By streamlining demand and promoting strategic alliances, FPH2 is making the shift to hydrogen not only more feasible but also cost-effective.

In a world increasingly focused on sustainable practices and renewable energy sources, the appointment of Ernesto Medrano to the Board of Directors represents a significant move towards integrating labor and clean energy development. As FPH2 continues to evolve, it stands at the forefront of fostering both environmental stewardship and economic opportunity.

As the alliance gathers momentum, it invites community members and stakeholders to join in building a cleaner future. For more details on becoming a member or learning more, visit FirstPublicH2.com.