CU Boulder, state back coal transition communities

BOULDER — The University of Colorado Boulder is partnering with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) to study economic and workforce opportunities in communities shifting away from coal-based economies.

The yearlong initiative brings together graduate students, faculty and researchers from CU Boulder’s Business Research Division at the Leeds School of Business and the university’s Master of the Environment program. The team will conduct research, engage local stakeholders, and develop recommendations tailored to coal-transition communities in northwest Colorado. The project began in January and will continue through October 2026.

Andrew Mayock, CU Boulder’s vice chancellor for sustainability, said the effort reflects the university’s role as a public research institution serving communities across the state.

“This capstone-based work allows our students to contribute directly to the diversification of local economies by listening to communities, meeting their needs and incorporating community input into effective solutions,” Mayock said.

State officials say supporting communities historically dependent on coal mines and coal-fired power plants remains a priority as those areas seek new job opportunities and replacement tax revenue. Officials said the effort requires updated data and continued local input to guide planning and development.

OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman said the collaboration aligns state resources with local priorities.

“Research led by CU Boulder’s Business Research Division and MENV graduate program and supported by Just Transition funding will help us hear directly from communities and turn those insights into measurable outcomes for rural Coloradans,” Lieberman said.

The project will produce a regional analysis outlining next steps, action items, and a framework that could be used in other coal-transition regions across Colorado.

CU Boulder’s Office of Outreach and Community Engagement and External Partnerships is coordinating the initiative. Funding is shared between OEDIT and CU Boulder, with additional support from the Chancellor’s Office.