Green jobs are an integral part of a new employment sector that is expected to grow in the coming years. A green job, or green collar job, refers to employment at Delaware businesses that work to lower pollution and waste or help clean and protect the environment. Jobs in alternative energy are a great example of green jobs.
Given this is a new industry which will be expanding rapidly and will likely put America back on the manufacturing map, there is a high demand for a new type of skilled workers. Green job training programs have cropped up throughout the country to help prepare workers for these new green collar jobs.
Green Jobs Training Programs in Delaware
Below are training programs and certifications for various types of green jobs.
Delaware LEED Certification Programs
When it comes to green building certifications LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the gold standard. LEED has become very popular in the last several years and community colleges now offer LEED certification programs. The U.S. Green Building Council is likewise a wonderful resource for locating LEED certification programs in your area.
Delaware Energy Auditor Training
An energy auditor examines a company or home to find where energy has been lost or wasted and makes suggestions for making the structure more energy efficient. Some areas are now beginning to require homeowners have an energy audit before they can sell their house. Those who have experience in engineering, home inspections or building are energy auditor naturals. Check with your community college to see if they provide energy auditor courses. The Association of Energy Engineers or Everblue both offer energy auditor training in Delaware.
Delaware Ecotourism Training
Ecotourism has become popular because so many vacationers are now trying to be more eco-friendly in their excursions. If you enjoy, travel, nature and science then a career in ecotourism may be just what you're looking for. Some Delaware colleges offer classes in ecotourism. In Thailand the Ecotourism Training Center has established the Sustainable Marine Adventures Responsible Tourism (S.M.A.R.T.) training program.
Renewable Energy Training Programs in Delaware
Delaware renewable energy sources include solar, wind and geothermal energy sources. The popularity in all three are growing everyday. If you're interested in geothermal technologies the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association provides workshops and training. For those thinking of getting a green job in wind energy the Interstate Renewable Energy Council and NABCEP both offer training in wind power and turbines.
In addition to the organizations already mentioned, there are also many local, state and national green jobs training programs.
Education Levels for Green Jobs Training in Delaware
Many people may be wondering or even worried about what level of education they have to have in order to be a part of Delaware green jobs training programs. The good news is that for many training programs students have to have no less than a high school diploma.
Some green jobs training in Delaware will require a college degree or enrollment in college. Others, like energy auditing, requires other specialized knowledge. The level of education needed is mainly dependent on the type of green job you're interested in. One of the first things you need to do is consult with the certification program to find out what education prerequisites are required.
Green jobs promise to provide workers with good paying, long term employment. Use the information above to learn more about green jobs training in Delaware.