We have so many impactful programs at USGBC California, and one of them – the Green Janitor Education Program (GJEP) – was an early example that has helped exemplify a beautiful mix of workforce development, sustainability, partnership, education / training, and uplifting of spirit…something we strive for across all our programs. And the graduations from this program are truly special experiences.
The Green Janitor Program is offered as the Green Janitor Education Program (GJEP) in California and the Green Janitor Health Certification (GJHC) outside of California. The program is a 30-hour training course designed for custodial staff that prepares custodial professionals to advance sustainable building operations.
Since its expansion to other states, the Green Janitor Health Certificate program graduated 700 custodial staff outside of CA in the past four years. On January 9, 2026, we proudly celebrated 21 graduates in King County through the GJHC in downtown Seattle. Representing SEIU Local 925, a union representing more than 19,000 public services and early learning workers, these graduates are joining a growing movement of custodial professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to advance healthier, more sustainable buildings.
Developed in partnership – USGBC California, U.S. Green Building Council, SEIU-United Service Workers West, and other industry leaders – the program covers critical aspects of sustainable facility management. Participants gain practical knowledge in energy and water efficiency, waste management, sustainable cleaning practices, indoor environmental quality, and worker health and safety—helping improve building performance while creating healthier environments for everyone who uses them.
Shared Kimberlee Kelly, educator, “It was an incredible experience to work with yet another invested and engaged cohort. These graduates brought so much knowledge, experience, and pride to our program. During each cohort, I learn just as much from their perspectives and experiences as they learn from our curriculum.
“Custodial professionals are often the people who know a building best,” Kelly continued. “They see how spaces are used, what works, what doesn’t, and where there are opportunities to make buildings healthier, safer, and more sustainable. I love facilitating our Green Janitor program because it creates space to build on custodial expertise, share their ideas, and explore practical ways to put sustainability, environmentalism, and workplace safety into action. I’m incredibly proud of this group and excited to see how they carry what they have learned back into their buildings and communities.”
Multiple USGBC California staff have attended graduations over the years and we always come away inspired (with some tears shed) by the workers and the investment they have made in themselves. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these 21 graduates for their dedication to professional growth and environmental stewardship. Their commitment demonstrates the vital role custodial professionals play in advancing sustainability every day. We also thank SEIU for its continued leadership in empowering workers and strengthening the communities they serve. And a special thank you to instructor Kimberlee Kelly, whose expertise, encouragement, and passion for sustainability helped guide this cohort throughout the program. Her commitment to educating and empowering custodial professionals is instrumental to the success of the Green Janitor Program and to building a stronger, more sustainable workforce.
Posted 9/11/26
About the Author
Kim serves as the Director, Community & Events for USGBC California. A self-described entrepreneur and creative, Kim transformed her passion for sustainability into a redesign workshop with a mission to champion circularity and reduce textile waste while leading operations for a global apparel company. In 2023, she graduated from USC Marshall with Certificate in Sustainability and Business, complementing her Bachelor’s degree in Human Environment from Concordia University.
