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Top Five Green Programs

There has been a lot of chatter recently about green jobs. In President Obama's State of the Union, it was mentioned quite a bit. Both sides of the aisle have started to seriously analyze the importance of green jobs. There may be legitimacy to some of the arguments on both sides. Let us look past some of the arguments and find the careers that can have a lasting impact on our environment and our energy future. Green careers may hold the key to energy independence. In order to reach that goal, a knowledgeable and trained domestic work force must be present. This training will help circumvent the loss of green jobs overseas. Green training programs are essential to a green economy. Let the politicians argue. Let us get back to school.

Renewable Energy Training

Cost Range: $2000-$25,000

Renewable energy programs come in all shapes and sizes. These degrees cover the broad basics of clean energy. Programs can specialize from solar to geothermal. Nearly every state has offerings in these trades.

If you are not the college type, don't worry. There are all kinds of degrees and programs that cover the spectrum. The North American Board of Energy Practitioners (nabcep.org/) offers classes and certifications that can help people start in a green field very soon. Another great place to get certification is The International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (igshpa.okstate.edu/). They only offer geothermal workshops, but it may be great for a quick turn around. If you are looking to go back to school, many colleges and universities now offer degrees in renewable energy. Check with your local community college first to see if they have classes. You may be pleasantly surprised.

LEED Certification

Cost Range: $500-$1000/ Course, $250/ Exam

The U.S. Government has been changing around many of the rules and regulations as far as building. If you are in the building arena, you may want to take a serious look at getting this certification. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222) could very soon be the standard for all buildings. This would mean, if you don't have this, you can't build within this green niche. Finding a class to get LEED certified is simple. First, check out the United States Green Building Council (usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CategoryID=19). They offer many courses. One of many institutions that offer certification is Everblue (everblueenergy.com/leed-certification). Many community colleges may also offer the training, which makes it very accessible.

Ecotourism

Cost Range: $200-$10,000

Ecotourism is a great career for the person who likes the great outdoors, and for the indoor person. There are two main ways that ecotourism is being used. For those who love conservation, many colleges offer degrees in this ecotourism. It combines science, nature and travel. If you are not interested in travel, then look into a career as a travel agent. Having a travel agency niche can give you a leg up on a world that is increasingly conscious of being ecologically aware. If you are feeling really adventurous, try getting your training overseas at the Ecotourism Training Center (etcth.org/). For travel agent training, one place is Gatlin Education Services (gatlineducation.com/travelagent.html).

Wind Program

Cost Range: $2500-$25,000

Wind energy holds some of the most potential towards a clean energy world. Wind turbines create all areas of green careers. Machinists, engineers and others are needed to start in this burgeoning field. For most training you will need to get a < a href="United-States-Wind-Programs.html">college diploma. However, the NABCEP is in the process of creating a small wind certification program. The Intestate Renewable Energy Council (irecusa.org/index.php?id=107) offers classes about wind energy and turbines. For the handy type, you can install a turbine in your backyard or roof. Make sure to check with your local ordinances.

Energy Auditor

Cost Range: $600- $15,000

As people become more energy conscious they may start to realize that they are losing money unnecessarily. An energy auditor can go into any business, large or small, and help them save on energy costs. You do not need a background in engineering to start in this field. There are many places that offer certification and training. Everblue (everblueenergy.com) offers certification. The Association of Energy Engineers (aeecenter.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1) is another great place to start. They may be more geared for the person with an engineering background. Again, if these don't work, check your local community college. They are at the forefront of the green jobs push.

These five careers are shaping the energy and green future. If you are unsure of where to get green training, start with these. They are yours for the taking. Green Careers may be able to help you get into a job with a great future.

Green Career Resources