By Susan Smith Nash, Ph.D.
If we don't add more energy sources, we'll be in the dark by 2020. That's what at least one study has concluded, and it has also pointed out that unless people start studying to become alternative energy experts (wind, geothermal, solar), the shortage of qualified personnel will contribute to the nationwide brownout.
As a result, one of the largest growth areas in careers is in the area of new energy, particularly environmentally friendly traditional and alternative energy technology.
The job prospects are excellent. It has been said that jobs in alternative energy are stable ones; ones that cannot be outsourced. In addition, the U.S. is in need of numerous energy sources as demand for electricity, as well as petroleum products, start to outstrip available supply. In fact, a recent study by the Department of Energy has pointed out that if new, significant sources of electricity are not put online soon, parts of the country will start to experience chronic shortages in the form of brownouts and blackouts by 2020.
University of California, Irvine's Sustainability Leadership Certificate
This certificate program outlines how to integrate business objectives and goals with green initiatives and sustainability efforts. Professionals who work in areas such as human resources, public relations, marketing, and facilities management will gain a tremendous amount of working knowledge.
There are numerous studies that detail the outlook for wind energy demand. Some even provide a profile of jobs, technology, and geographical regions.
Wind Energy Program — 100 percent online
Texas State Technical College West Texas began offering a two year Associates degree in Wind Energy at the Sweetwater campus in 2007. What sets this alternative energy program apart is the fact that the certificate program is 100 percent online. Wind energy and turbine technology certification is one part of a major sea change that is rippling through our world. Education that works is community-oriented, online, accessible, earth-friendly, alternative/independent in terms of energy, and infrastructure-enhancing.
Laramie Community College: Associate of Science and Certificate Program in Wind Energy
Not online, and has hands-on lab. The field-work would be very compatible with mobile learning.
Lawrence Technological University: Associate in Alternative Energy Technology
The Associate Degree in the Alternative Energy Technician Program gives future technicians a working knowledge of Alternative Energy systems.
Many of the courses in the core program appear to be very amenable to e-learning delivery.
Iowa Lakes Community College: Wind Energy and Turbine Technology
Alliant Energy is collaborating with Iowa Lakes Community College (ILCC) to develop the curriculum for their Wind Energy and Turbine Technology program. This two-year Associate in Applied Science degree prepares students to install, maintain and service modern wind turbines. Graduates will be ready to support Iowa's growing wind infrastructure as companies rush to build renewable energy generation.
Minnesota West: Associate Degree in Wind Energy
As energy costs continue to escalate, the demand for lower cost, more efficient, and renewable energy sources continue to be explored. The career of Wind Energy Technician includes everything from installation and repair to troubleshooting of wind energy towers. This technician will be capable of working closely with clients with an understanding of environmental issues and politics, written technical skills, and data interpretation.
The Ogallala Commons
Ogallala Commons is a nonprofit resource development network, offering leadership and education to reinvigorate the commonwealths that form the basis of all communities, both human and natural. Ogallala Commons country overlies the vast High Plains-Ogallala Aquifer, covering about 174,000 square miles across parts of eight Great Plains states.
This is a wonderful endeavor to create leadership approaches that support rural communities, environments, educational endeavors, and a "whole person" spiritual life. Because the communities are so geographically scattered, elearning would be ideal. This is a great opportunity to test new ways to overcome new digital divides (lack of broadband), and to implement new mobile learning techniques and technologies. Access is fundamental.
In conclusion, wind energy programs are new, and growing. Enrolling in a program that offers certification and a degree, along with opportunities for internship and job placement is a good move for anyone interested in green technologies and green energy.
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