Green jobs are a part of a brand new employment sector that's expected to grow in the coming years. A green job, or green collar job, refers to employment at Minnesota businesses that work to reduce pollution and waste or help clean and protect the environment. Jobs in alternative energy are a good example of green jobs.
Given that this is a new industry that will be growing rapidly and will likely put America back on the manufacturing map, there's a high demand for a new type of skilled workers. Green job training programs have cropped up across the country to help get workers ready for these new green collar jobs.
Green Jobs Training Programs in Minnesota
Below are training programs and certifications for different kinds of green jobs.
Minnesota LEED Certification Programs
When it comes to green building certifications LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the defacto standard. LEED has become very popular in the last couple of years and community colleges now offer LEED certification programs. The U.S. Green Building Council is likewise a superb resource for locating LEED certification programs near you.
Minnesota Energy Auditor Training
An energy auditor examines a business or home to find where energy has been lost or wasted and makes suggestions for making the building more energy efficient. Some areas are now starting to require homeowners have an energy audit before they can sell their home. Individuals who have a background in engineering, home inspections or building are energy auditor naturals. Check with your community college to see if they offer energy auditor courses. The Association of Energy Engineers or Everblue both offer energy auditor training in Minnesota.
Minnesota Ecotourism Training
Ecotourism is becoming popular since many vacationers are now wanting to be more environmentally friendly in their excursions. If you enjoy, travel, nature and science then a career in ecotourism may be just what you're trying to find. Some Minnesota colleges offer classes in ecotourism. In Thailand the Ecotourism Training Center has created the Sustainable Marine Adventures Responsible Tourism (S.M.A.R.T.) training course.
Renewable Energy Training Programs in Minnesota
Minnesota renewable energy sources include solar, wind and geothermal energy sources. The excitement in all three are growing by the day. If you are 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 mentioned above, there are also many local, state and national green jobs training programs.
Education Levels for Green Jobs Training in Minnesota
Many people may be wondering or even concerned about what level of education they need to have in order to be a part of Minnesota green jobs training programs. The good news is that for many training programs students must have a minimum of a high school diploma.
Some green jobs training in Minnesota 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 expected.
Green jobs promise to supply workers with good paying, long term employment. Use the information above to learn more about green jobs training in Minnesota.