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Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, today announced that it will be sponsoring the Green Jobs Showcase at the upcoming Green Schools National Conference.

The second annual conference, to be held February 27-29 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, will bring together K-12 leaders and educators from around the country. Attendees will learn new ways to make schools and districts green and healthy centers of academic excellence. The conference is positioned as the centerpiece of a national movement sending a strong, clear message that green is the future of our schools.

The conference features a landmark appearance by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan on February 28 where he will discuss the newly established U. S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools Program. The conference will be the most comprehensive resource for schools hoping to become a Green Ribbon School in 2012. 

The Green Jobs Showcase is an opportunity for 20-30 companies to illustrate their green practices, describe current and future careers, and explain why sustainability-focused education is important to industry.

“Students learning in an environmentally focused culture will inevitably want to choose career paths that allow them to continue their commitment to helping the planet,” says Jim McGrath, director of the Green Schools National Network, conference sponsor. “This showcase will allow conferees to get a glimpse of the green jobs of the future, sought-after careers that will be critically important to our health and the health of the planet in the decades to come.”

Green Jobs Showcase

Date/Time:                                          

February 28, 2012 – 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

February 29, 2012 – 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Where:                                                  

Colorado Convention Center

Rooms 201-203-205-207

Cost:                                            

Green Jobs Showcase Only – No Charge

“Ecotech is passionate about supporting the education industry’s movement to embrace sustainability in its facilities, curriculum and shaping students’ view of the world,” adds Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “We are pleased to play a role in building a bridge between schools and the marketplace.”

Companies interested in participating in the Green Jobs Showcase can contact Kim Stromire at Kimberly.stromire@ecotechinstitute.com or 303-586-5290 Ext. 4647. Entries will be accepted until next week.

To register as an attendee, please visit http://www.greenschoolsnationalconference.org/register_now.php.

For general conference or registration questions, please e-mail greeninfo@nationalgreenschools.org or call 1-800-280-6218 between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Pacific Coast Time.

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers seven highly practical degree programs and one certificate program that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit us online at www.ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.  The next round of classes begins in April and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, announced today that its January quarter kicked off with 100 new students, the largest start to date.  With total current enrollment at 473 students, Ecotech witnessed a student population increase of almost 400 percent in just one year.

Ecotech Institute started classes in a temporary facility in June 2010 as it completed an overhaul of an existing vacant building.  In January 2011, Ecotech’s 119 students began attending school in its LEED gold-certified campus in Aurora, Colorado.   Since then, the facility’s offerings, faculty and student enrollment have continually experienced growth and improvement.

This June, the first graduating class of 39 students is expected to receive their degrees and in December 2012, another 50 students are expected to graduate.  Of these students, the most popular degrees include Wind Energy Technology, Renewable Energy Technology and Electrical Engineering Technology.

“We knew we had something special when Ecotech opened its doors, and it’s inspiring to see increasingly more students come from across the country to pursue a degree that can truly make a difference in the world,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute.  “With our first group of graduates in June, we can’t wait to see where they go and to hear their stories of success.  This is definitely going to be a big year for us.”

Today, 90 percent of Ecotech’s students are men and 77 percent of the students are from Colorado.  However, every day more and more students are moving from other states to pursue a degree at Ecotech, with students from 37 states and Puerto Rico currently represented.  The top states from which Ecotech students have relocated include California, New Jersey, Wyoming, Illinois and Texas.

With the growth in students comes a growth in faculty as well.  When Ecotech first opened, the school had one program director and two instructors. Ecotech now has three program directors and 24 instructors who teach in 11 hands-on learning labs.  Ecotech’s holistic teaching approach gives students a chance to learn first-hand about the technology they will use in the field of their future career.  At Ecotech, students also learn soft skills (communication, workplace etiquette), math and science basics and technology skills.

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers seven highly practical degree programs and one certificate program that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit us online at www.ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.  The next round of classes begins in April and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Where will green technology take us in 2012? Ecotech Institute is keeping a close eye on that very big question. We are constantly monitoring cleantech industry growth and innovation, and looking for ways to align our environmental sustainabilitycurriculum with employer and marketplace demands. Every day we read up on the latest research regarding solar power, wind energy, smart grid and other relevant industries. We want to make sure our students are up to speed when they graduate so their employers truly get the best, most knowledgeable employees.

In 2011, cleantech ventureinvestment had an incredible year. As a result of financial backing, we saw an infusion of green start-up companies, new jobs and a growing belief in the future of cleantech industries. However, the challenges of this relatively new space also came to light as some companies met very public criticism.

As the president of Ecotech Institute, it’s my job to take a hard look at opportunities in cleantech now and into the future. Our career services team needs to accurately predict where Ecotech graduates will be able to make a living and make a difference in the world. Frankly, there is a lot of enthusiasm as we enter 2012 with a promising outlook about environmental sustainability’s growing role in the world.

This is a very exciting year for Ecotech because we will graduate our first group of students in June. As we continue to prepare them for the workforce this year, we are collectively interested in what industry leaders are predicting.

Here are some predictions of note:

1. According to a December 28, 2011 article by Michael Kanellos on www.greenbiz.com, “Renewables will start to win over the jobs argument.”

He states, “The 2012 Presidential election will be only about one thing: jobs. In the energy and sustainability context, the debate boils down to whether you think more jobs can be created through pipelines and offshore drilling or through erecting solar farms and retrofitting buildings.”

“But here is where renewables win: they don't take years….Many fossil projects, meanwhile, are bogged down in land use hearings….If renewables get results quicker, they become the better solution.”

My takeaway: Green jobs will continue to grow and companies need educated people to fill them.

2. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) says this year is going to be a big year for wind power, both in the field and in policy. The association notes that unlike the volatile prices of fossil fuels, wind power has a fixed fuel cost of zero, making it a very appealing form of energy. However, Congress needs to act quickly to protect the future of wind energyin the U.S. If lawmakers do not extend the Production Tax Credit that is due to expire at the end of this year, taxes on wind will go up and jobs could go overseas.

My takeaway: Wind energy will continue to grow this year, however Congress needs to take action to make sure that growth continues in 2013 and beyond. Please contact your lawmakers to let them know the importance of extending the Production Tax Credit.

3. According to predictions from www.EnvironmentalLeader.com, solar innovation will serve as a perennial driver.

“Investment into good old solar innovation and projects is still strong, and has remained so for years, while other clean technologies have risen and fallen in and out of investment fashion.”

My takeaway: As money continues to be filtered into solar power innovation, we must keep a close eye on how these technologies will be built and maintained.

4. Jesse Berst with gigaom.com listed top predictions based on his takeaways from a webinar offered by renowned research firm IDC. He stated the following, “Smart buildings will become important to utilities. 25 states have energy efficiency standards or targets. Smart buildings can help meet such goals. The building energy analytics market will double between 2012 and 2015, jumping from $193 billion to $402 billion.”

My takeaway: The growth of smart buildings requires savvy energy efficiency experts.

5. In “10 solar trends to watch for in 2012,” Ucilia Wang, another contributor to gigaom.com, discusses solar energy’s impact on the grid. The article states that, “The increase in solar energygeneration has nudged utilities and electric grid regulators to give more thought and investment to the impact of solar in their mission to deliver electricity reliably.”

“Since solar production can ebb and surge depending on the time of the day and the weather, new technologies and policies are cropping up to monitor solar energy production and minimize interruptions of power delivery.”

My takeaway: The marketplace needs educated professionals who understand the interplay between solar technology and the current energy grid system.

The green landscape will continue to shift and it is important to watch, learn and prepare future leaders. The excitement of clean technology innovation in 2012 and beyond ought to be celebrated by everyone who has a stake in making our world a better place to work, play and live.

Health Education Solutions, a leading provider of advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) online certification, has released a series of ACLS and PALS practice tests to help healthcare providers and first responders prepare for their certification or recertification exam.

Available practice materials include:

• ACLS Certification Practice Test
• ACLS Recertification Practice Test
• ACLS Certification Free Practice Quiz
• ACLS Recertification Free Practice Quiz
• PALS Recertification Practice Test
• PALS Certification Practice Test
• PALS Recertification Free Practice Quiz
• PALS Certification Free Practice Quiz

The free ACLS and PALS practice quizzes each offer three, five-question sample tests. Full ACLS and PALS practice tests, both complete with 50 timed, multiple-choice PALS or ACLS practice questions, are available for $35. A full 50-question PALS recertification practice exam and ACLS recertification practice test are also available for $35. A portion of this fee can be applied to the purchase price of the full certification course. Practice tests are available at http://www.healthedsolutions.com/practice-tests.aspx.

“Health Education Solutions’ practice tests are a convenient solution for healthcare professionals and first responders who are preparing for the ACLS and PALS exams,” said Melissa Marks, president of Health Education Solutions. “With ACLS and PALS practice questions that closely mirror those that will be included in the exams, the tests and quizzes offer these busy professionals the opportunity to preview questions and practice skills prior to certification.”

Immediately following the test, the practice tests and quizzes provide test-takers with answers to the questions that were incorrectly answered to help them identify the areas that may need more study time and attention prior to the full certification exam.

Accompanying the ACLS and PALS practice tests and quizzes is a new Practice Tests Special Section, complete with information about ACLS practice questions (2012), studying techniques, comparisons of the test options and advice for test-taking success.

ACLS and PALS courses and practice tests were developed in partnership with medical faculty at Union College in Lincoln, Neb. To meet the needs of healthcare professionals whose employers require American Heart Association (AHA) ACLS certification, Health Education Solutions now offers HeartCode® ACLS courses, the official, self-directed, comprehensive e-learning program from the AHA. Individuals taking this course will receive an official AHA ACLS provider card after they complete part one (cognitive) and parts two and three (practice skills and skills check).

For more information about online ACLS certification, online PALS certification and practice exams, please visit http://www.healthedsolutions.com/articles/acls-practice-questions-2012.  

I recently came across a fantastic report published by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. The report evaluates Colorado’s energy industry in two subclusters: (1) fossil fuels and (2) cleantech, which includes companies that use renewable energy sources and materials such as solar, wind, biomass and green transportation. 

Of course, as president of Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely dedicated to renewable energy and sustainable design, I was thrilled with the cleantech statistics in the state we call home. 

Because the report is so robust, this recap is truly an opportunity to call out data and facts that illustrate why Colorado is a hub for cleantech activity, where thousands of jobs and a promising future in the green landscape exist.  It’s great to see that government funding, public policy and private industry are all supporting Colorado’s growth as a leader in the cleantech space.

Below I have highlighted some great statistics and have pulled bulleted information verbatim from the report.  To download the full report to get more details on the bright future of the Colorado cleantech industry, visit: http://www.metrodenver.org/industries-companies/industries/energy.html.

JOBS

Colorado is a leader in the cleantech subcluster and has seen a large jump in the number of related jobs.  In fact, while cleantech jobs increased nationally by about 10 percent in the last five years, that number soared to more than 30 percent in Colorado.  Much of that growth was in wind and solar energy companies. 

Key findings:

§  The cleantech subcluster directly employed about 19,420 people in Colorado in 2010.

§  With nearly 54,100 energy workers in approximately 3,570 companies in 2010, the state continues to position itself as a hub of energy industry activity in both the fossil fuels and cleantech sectors.

§  About 1,600 cleantech companies operated in Colorado in 2010.

§  The number of Colorado cleantech companies increased 9.6 percent between 2005 and 2010, compared with 4.2 percent growth nationally.

§  According to Headwaters Economics, the number of cleantech jobs in Colorado increased 30 percent from 1995 to 2007, or about 17,000 jobs. The study cited more than $796 million in venture capital investments that bolstered Colorado’s green economy between 1999 and 2008.

NEW COMPANIES

In 2010, more than a dozen companies chose Colorado as the place to develop new wind and solar projects.  According to a study by professors at Arizona State University, Colorado ranked as the second-most attractive location for businesses hoping to export solar power. When it comes to wind, Colorado is one of six states that generate more than five percent of total electricity from wind, according to the American Wind Energy Association.

Some of the wind company announcements in 2010 include:

§  Vestas Technology R&D located a research and development center in Louisville. The new center focuses on improving wind turbine efficiency and reducing energy costs and will employ engineers, scientists, and support staff.           

§  New York-based American Zephyr Corp. relocated its distribution, sales, and support center to Louisville. Within the next few years, the company plans to manufacture all of its wind turbine parts locally, rather than importing its parts from outside the U.S.

§  Broomfield-based Renewable Energy Systems (RES) Americas unveiled plans for a windpower complex in eastern Colorado. Located in Lincoln and Elbert Counties, the Cedar Point Wind Project will be the second-largest wind farm in the state and will use Vestas wind turbines for the project. The finished project should generate enough energy to power 68,000 homes.

§  Vestas will expand its U.S. presence when it opens its second blade factory in Brighton in 2011. The Windsor blade factory opened in March 2008, followed by the nacelle factory in Brighton and the world’s largest tower factory in Pueblo in 2010. Combined, the four manufacturing facilities, which are located on three campuses in Brighton, Windsor, and Pueblo, represent an investment of about $1 billion in the state since 2007. The company plans to double its workforce in the next year to fulfill turbine order demands and expand annual production capacity. In addition, Vestas announced a $2.5 million, 80-acre expansion to the company’s Windsor manufacturing facility that will serve as storage space for wind blades.

Some of the solar company new announcements in 2010 include:

§  SMA Solar Technology AG, the largest solar inverter manufacturer in the world, was named “Deal of the Year” award winner in 2010 by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. The Germany-based company was recognized for its significant economic impact to the region through capital investment and job creation. In 2010, the company hired 200 workers at its northeast Denver plant and could add up to 500 more positions by the end of 2011.

§  North Carolina-based power company Cogentrix Energy LLC plans to build the world’s largest concentrated photovoltaic power plant north of Alamosa. The 225-acre power facility will utilize lens-based technology that could power up to 6,500 homes.

§  SkyFuel, Inc. relocated its corporate headquarters from Albuquerque to Arvada. The company’s parabolic solar power collector research and development center is already located in Jefferson County and the company cited its proximity to National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Colorado’s growing cleantech environment as key factors in their location decision.

§  California-based SunPower Corp. and Colorado Springs Utility are building a 6-MW solar Power facility at the U.S. Air Force Academy. The 30-acre project is slated for completion by 2011.

FUNDING

Colorado continues to be a hub for energy-related venture capital and ranks as one of the top five states in terms of capital generated for energy-related projects.

§  Through 2010, federal stimulus support designated more than $768 million to Colorado for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, including funding for energy tax incentives for individuals and businesses in Colorado through the State Energy Program.

§  The combination of Colorado’s Renewable Energy Standard of 30 percent by 2020 and production tax credits demonstrates Colorado’s commitment to renewable energy technology development and research. Former Colorado Governor Bill Ritter unveiled the Governor’s Energy Office Revolving Loan Program and the Green Colorado Credit Reserve Program, both stimulus-funded loan programs aimed at renewable energy companies and companies making renewable energy improvements to their buildings.

§  The Governor’s Energy Office program has a $13 million budget, $12 million of which will go towards large renewable energy companies that have struggled to obtain bank loans and $1 million of which will be used to support energy efficiency projects for small businesses.

RESEARCH

Colorado is becoming a leader in the cleantech space not only through the companies doing business in Colorado and the jobs created, but also through the research that is being done.

§  Legislation passed in 2007 created the Colorado Renewable Energy Collaboratory, a partnership among the University of Colorado at Boulder (CU-Boulder), the Colorado School of Mines, Colorado State University, and NREL. The Collaboratory conducts world-class research through its six research centers. The centers develop new energy technologies and help transfer them to the private sector.

§  Colorado is one of only five states to have initiated an industry association dedicated entirely to cleantech—the Colorado Cleantech Industry Association (CCIA). Formed in 2008, CCIA provides data and research, develops statewide and federal policy initiatives, partners with industry and research institutions, and provides education and training to the cleantech sector.

§  Golden-based NREL is the DOE’s only laboratory dedicated to renewable energy efficiency research and development across 12 research areas including advanced vehicles and fuels, concentrating solar power, biomass, and buildings research. In 2010, NREL began construction on its Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIP) devoted to renewable energy technologies and their integration into existing energy infrastructure. The $135 million project will house office space, laboratories, and a state-of-the-art data center for up to 250 NREL researchers and support staff. In addition, NREL is planning a 137,000 square-foot addition to support the laboratory’s newly completed research complex. Federal stimulus funds will pay for the $39 million project slated for completion in 2012 and will incorporate numerous energy efficiency advances in the facility designed to accommodate 500 NREL workers.

COLORADO’S RESOURCES

Colorado is recognized for its natural resources as well, with its climate and geography playing a large part in what the state offers.

§  Wind Power—Colorado ranked ninth in the nation for total installed wind power capacity and 11th in potential wind power capacity in 2009. (American Wind Energy Association, 2010)

§  Biomass—Colorado expanded biomass resources to include dead and dying lodgepole pines, municipal solid waste, and biosolids derived from wastewater treatments that can qualify under the higher RES goal of 30 percent by 2020. This points to Colorado’s ability to harness existing and potential biomass resources in the state. Colorado could produce an estimated 2.6 million dry tons of biomass for energy each year. (Governor’s Energy Office, 2010)

§  Solar Energy—Colorado had the sixth-highest installed solar generation capacity, with the majority of capacity generated in southwest Colorado. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has classified the southwest Colorado region a high potential solar resource area that could satisfy about half of the state’s peak power demand. (SNL Financial, 2010; Interstate Renewable Energy Council, 2010)

§  Water—Colorado is at the headwaters of five major U.S. rivers. The state produced nearly 2,040 megawatt hours (MWh) of hydroelectric power in 2009. Estimates from the Governor's Energy Office suggest that almost two million MWh of hydroelectric power could be developed across the state. (U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration, 2010; Governor's Energy Office, 2010)

§  Colorado ranked 14th in the nation in 2008 for the percent of electricity generated from renewable sources. (U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration, 2010)

As you can see, these findings are incredibly encouraging for Colorado and for our nation.  As we continue to look for the best ways to run our economy, businesses and homes, renewable energy will be at the forefront.  It’s not longer just for the “hippie culture” as more and more average Americans and businesses are embracing renewable energy and the benefits it offers.  At Ecotech, we’re proud to be a part of this energy revolution and we pride ourselves in being the first school entirely focused on creating an educated workforce that understands the intricacies of what it takes to work in the cleantech industry.  To learn more about Ecotech Institute visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainable design, is hosting a free green jobs breakfast on Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 9:00 a.m.  The breakfast will be at Ecotech’s campus, located at 1400 South Abilene in Aurora, and the event is open to the public. The prestigious, nationally based Ecotech Institute board of advisors, who collaborated on its one-of-a-kind, hands-on curriculum, will make up the panel.  To attend the event, please RSVP at www.ecotechinstitute.com.

The breakfast will focus on jobs in the cleantech sector and the need for a well-trained pool of employees.  Ecotech Institute’s esteemed board of advisors will talk with current and potential students, as well as those interested in the industry, about the wide breadth of careers available in current and emerging cleantech fields.   The panel members will address skill sets, education, the green landscape in 2011 and where our country is headed in the cleantech space. 

The event is open to the public and members of the media are welcome to attend.

WHAT:                                    Ecotech Green Jobs Breakfast  

WHEN:                                    Thursday, April 28, 2011

TIME:                                       9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

LOCATION:                              1400 South Abilene, Aurora, CO

MODERATOR:                         Dr. Abbas Ghassemi, Professor, Chemical Engineering, Executive Director, Institute for Energy & Environment and Executive Director, WERC: A Consortium for Environmental Education and Technology Development

PANEL:                                    Alden Zeitz, Director of North American Operations, DeWind Co.

Colin M. Coyne, Managing Principal, Coyne Group, LEED 2.0 Accredited Professional, Lecturer of Sustainable Enterprise at Kellogg: SEEK 920-A: “Sustainable Strategy”

Craig Mataczynski, Former Chief Executive, Renewable Energy Systems Americas and Chairman, Ecologic Analytics

Declan Flanagan, President & CEO, Lincoln Renewable Energy LLC

Ghazi Darkazalli, Ph D, PE, President & CEO, Marian Court College

Janelle Kellman, Attorney, Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Timothy Callahan, Partner, Paul Hastings

The Case for Green Jobs

• The NY Times reports that the federal government is pouring $500 million into training for green jobs, and the sector devoted to energy efficiency is estimated to grow as much as fourfold in the next decade, to some 1.3 million people, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
  
  
• According to Clean Tech Job Trends 2010, money invested in clean energy creates two to four jobs for every one job created if the money were spent on fossil fuel industries. Three clean tech categories in particular held their ground as the dominant innovative leaders throughout 2009, based upon number of patents granted: solar energy technology (at approximately 31 percent), wind power (at approximately 19 percent) and hybrid vehicles (at approximately 15 percent).
  
  

The Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation recently released a report illustrating Colorado’s job growth in the cleantech industry.  Some statistics include:

• Cleantech jobs increased nationally by about 10 percent in the last five years, and that number soared to more than 30 percent in Colorado. Much of that growth was in wind and solar energy companies.
  
  
• The cleantech subcluster directly employed about 19,420 people in Colorado in 2010.

• About 1,600 cleantech companies operated in Colorado in 2010.  The number of Colorado cleantech companies increased 9.6 percent between 2005 and 2010, compared with 4.2 percent growth nationally.    

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.  Applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Everyone is talking about “green jobs.”  While many people are eager to become employed in the sustainability sector, there are naysayers who don’t believe that they actually exist.  As part of the ongoing, healthy dialogue about what and where green jobs are, it’s important to make an important distinction.  While there are bona fide positions that can be appropriately defined as a green job, there are thousands of other careers that are simply changing in the new energy economy.  The truth is, workplaces are shifting to more sustainable models, with or without the catchy phrase. 

According to the Colorado Cleantech Action Plan, “Cleantech is growing in Colorado and creating thousands of jobs.”  Citing the Pew Center’s report, The Clean Energy Economy:  Repowering Jobs, Businesses, and Investments Across America (http://bit.ly/dIpWGM), “Between 1999 and 2009, Colorado’s cleantech industry grew at an annualized rate of 18 percent, more than twice the rate of the Colorado economy as a whole (8 percent).”  

And Colorado isn’t alone.  However, while wind, solar, energy efficiency and additional sustainable fields are rapidly growing, they are not the only industries presenting green jobs to the workforce. Many career paths are taking a turn, requiring new thinking and skill sets to keep up with the changing environmental landscape.

Architects, engineers, electricians and machinists will continue to be in demand, yet their job descriptions may be continuously altered. Electricians will need to understand the new utility landscape; machinists will be required to install and maintain new technologies; engineers across all industries will be asked to channel their knowledge towards designing sustainable systems.

Here are some examples of changing industries outside of the traditional cleantech sector:

Utility companies. “Powerful trends are transforming the U.S. utility sector, including climate change, energy security, and energy price volatility concerns; increasing deployment of alternative resources like energy efficiency and renewable energy; and shifts in natural gas and other fossil fuel industries. Utilities that respond most effectively to these key trends – and whose regulators and legislators support them in doing so – will be best positioned to succeed in the 21st century.” (The 21st Century Electric Utility: Positioning for a Low-Carbon Future, a Ceres report published by Navigant Consulting. 2010.)

Real Estate.  From architects to real estate appraisers and agents to top executives, real estate professionals are under pressure to recognize efficient building techniques, gain awareness of green design elements and effectively value and incorporate them in today’s marketplace.

Corporate real estate executives are illustrating commitment to making sustainable decisions within their real estate portfolios, which requires knowledge of Green Building certifications, Energy Labels, the costs and benefits of retrofitting buildings and much more.  According to the third annual CoreNet Global and Jones Lang LaSalle sustainability survey conducted in September and October 2009 (http://bit.ly/hjgKm0), research shows that sustainability remains a key agenda item for corporate real estate executives.

The report states, “Sustainability is a critical business issue today for 70 percent of respondents and 89 percent consider sustainability criteria in their location decisions.”

Law firms. With an influx of sustainable activity, there will inevitably be legal issues.  Well-prepared law firms have lawyers and paralegals on staff who have the knowledge and confidence to perform highly complex environmental legal research; draft, analyze, and manage complex legal documents and correspondence about environmental topics; and prepare environmental filings, reports; real estate documents and more.

Agriculture.  While windmills have been used on farms for decades, farmers and the overall agriculture industry are taking great strides that are good for the earth, crops and business.   Farming is actually among the original green jobs, but new technologies are coming to market, requiring agricultural business leaders to sell, install and maintain systems that keep our food supply moving and meet consumers’ desire for a sustainable food system.

In Workforce Management magazine (http://bit.ly/gFQVHj), Raquel Pinderhughes, a professor of urban studies at San Francisco State University, “identified 22 economic sectors with green-collar opportunities, including food production (using organic agriculture), manufacturing (making energy-efficient and recycled products) and auto repair (servicing alternative-fuel vehicles).”

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics hasn’t yet defined “green jobs,” there are businesses, HR directors, career services departments and educational institutions invested in fostering sustainable careers across all industries.

Whether a career is given the term “green job” or fits within the confines of the green landscape, changes are inevitable.  They are already beginning to be reflected in educational and job training options.  For example, Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colorado (a suburb of Denver) has opened its doors as the first and only institution solely focused on renewable energy and sustainable design.  Launched in April 2010, future graduates are already in demand according to the college.

“We’re consistently receiving phone calls from businesses who can’t wait for our first graduating class,” said Alison Wise, Director of Career Services for Ecotech Institute.  “We speak with representatives from a wide range of industries, all seeking people who can serve as the future leaders of their changing workforce.”

For more information on how Ecotech Institute sees the future of green jobs and education, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com. 

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainable design, today announced that it has named Susan Pawlak as the school’s new Director of Career Services.  In this position, Susan will focus on creating long-term relationships with renewable energy and sustainable companies and will match highly skilled Ecotech graduates with employers. 

“The best way to secure a job is through relationships and contacts, and Susan serves as a dedicated advocate for our students,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute.  “In addition, she will position Ecotech as a go-to resource for local and national companies searching for high-quality employees.”

Susan isn’t a new face to Ecotech.  She has been with the school since May 2011, originally serving as an OSHA Safety and Health instructor.  Susan also helped to develop parts of Ecotech’s energy efficiency program.  Prior to joining Ecotech, she worked as an Adjunct Instructor at Front Range Community College where she taught in the Clean Energy Technology program and Corporate Solutions department.  Susan retired from Anheuser-Busch in 2008 after 26 years, where she concurrently managed manufacturing operations and training and development.  She was a hiring manager and designated as a master trainer for Anheuser-Busch as a mentor and coach for managers, supervisors and operator/technicians.  Her background and experience with manufacturing technology and interpersonal soft skills made her the perfect fit for Ecotech’s Career Services department.

“It’s very exciting to have the opportunity to forge solid relationships with companies that are seeking the type of employees Ecotech will be able to deliver,” said Pawlak.  “When students come to Ecotech they have a goal of getting a job that will lead to a fulfilling career in renewable energy; I get to help these students make that goal a reality.”

In Susan’s spare time, she’s an active volunteer.  She Co-Chairs the Veterans Plaza of Colorado, a project that pays tribute to all military men and woman associated with Colorado.  She has also volunteered for boards, business associations and is currently a volunteer phlebotomist for the 9Health Fair.  For 20 years, Susan served as a volunteer paramedic, volunteer firefighter and as Director of Operations for a volunteer ambulance service.

Ecotech Institute will have its first graduating class in July 2012.  Ecotech, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, launched in Aurora, Colorado in April 2010 with seven highly practical degree programs and one certificate program that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.

Often, martial arts is stigmatized with negative actions or behaviors.  This is caused by media, the film industry, certain professional or amateur fighters etc.  However, in this blog article, I would like to prove that this should not be generalized and it does not have to be this way.

Originally, martial arts was developed to increase the chance of survival.  Later on, it started to be used as a sport, in competition, as an art form and more.  Mostly, the code of honor and respect was central and utterly important for the practitioners.  Of course, there are always bad apples and all human advancements are always used for good and bad causes (think about samurais who valued honor vs. ninjas who were spies and mercenaries).

Some of these traditional martial arts styles are still widely practiced but unfortunately are also very outdated.  This will be a ongoing discussion but someone practicing Tai Chi, Karate, traditional Judo etc. will learn many techniques that are simply not functional in a real life situation.  This does not mean however, they are less worthy as an art form or for personal development.  For self defense, these and many more styles are very overrated and sometimes even useless.

On the other side, martial arts has also evolved over the last decades. Think about Mixed Martial Arts.  This is the ultimate competition martial arts form and has proven itself over and over again.  For self defense reasons, it may also not be 100% effective though (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will not work with multiple attackers, an MMA fighter will not know how to defend against a knife or gun attack…)
The issue with this progress is that the self defense aspect is often overlooked and the honor and respect are mostly forgotten.  The ratings have gotten so important that most fighters talk badly about each other and have very little respect left.  There are exceptions, think about Georges St. Pierre, who has very strong values and is also one of the best martial artists and fighters in the world.

Martial arts and fighting overlap each other, no doubt about it.  For me, it is your personal attitude that shows which one you are.  You do not have to be mean or disrespectful to be a good martial artist AND fighter.  Talking badly and insulting others only shows a bad attitude (and fear?)  Honor and respect are extremely important in our facility.  We respect our friends, instructors and teammates.  We push each other and ourselves and test each other during training to become the best we can be.  But there are no egos, disrespect, insults or anything else.

Our clients have different goals.  Some want to become a martial artist to defend themselves, other want to get in shape and others want to compete.  But we only train martial artists… that are really proficient in what they do, whether it is being prepared for protecting themselves/other or testing themselves in competition.  Many martial artists can become fighters but not every fighter can become a martial artist.  You will gain a huge amount of knowledge and skills to reach your goal and at the same time, you will gain friends and have fun.

Define Defense focusses on being the best studio in Boulder and offers a modern approach to martial arts, which consist of the most effective and realistic ways in martial arts.  But we have also not forgotten about honor and respect.  These are values that should never be forgotten.  We don't practice traditional martial arts by any means but these values are timeless.  We train individuals to better themselves and learn martial arts so they can feel safer, better about themselves or compete.  We respect everyone's goals and do everything we can for you to meet those.

Sander Vanacker is the owner and head instructor of Define Defense Martial Arts in Downtown Boulder.  www.DefineDefense.com

As you know, there are a lot of different styles of martial arts which you can practice.  Some studios offer a very traditional practice, which is great for the art and philosophy but is not necessarily effective anymore.  Then other gyms offer cardio kickboxing, which is a fantastic workout but martial arts wise you will learn as much as playing Kung Fu video games.  Then there are MMA gyms, a style that has been proven to be highly effective in competition (although that does not mean it is effective in a real self defense situation).  Most martial arts studios will teach you the style that they are proficient in but that may not give you a complete training experience or the best bang for your buck!  

I have met many individuals that practice martial arts and hire a personal trainer or strength & conditioning coach on the side.  Or they practice yoga outside of martial arts classes to improve their flexibility, feel in sync with their body etc.  At Define Defense, we approach martial arts training through a modern way and want to redefine martial arts and self defense (Define Defense, get it?).  

What we do is offer different programs for different purposes:

- Modern Martial Arts for people wanting to learn and practice all the best of different martial arts in a modern and realistic way while getting a great workout (everything from standup, takedowns, throws etc.)
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for all levels and offering a highly effective mix of BJJ and other forms of submission wrestling for a superior ground game
- Mixed Martial Arts: combining Modern Martial Arts and BJJ for individuals who want to learn MMA or compete
- Women's Self Defense without the intimidation of having men around, all the best and most effective ways to defend yourself as a woman

These programs offer different things for different people and are specific to the goal that wants to be reached.  Now, as a client you will learn a lot of techniques, tactics, submissions, strikes and much more but what if you want to get stronger, in better shape, more flexible etc?  That is why all our clients get complimentary Circuit Training and Yoga classes.  These are included in your membership and are taught by certified instructors.  There is no more need for separate memberships, gyms, trainers and costs.  You get a full training package as a member in our studio.  This way, you get a better and more complete training experience without any additional cost.  You will actually save money because you don't have to go elsewhere anymore.   Our membership fees are highly competitive (the best in the Boulder area) and there are no setup fees or cancellation fees.  Our philosophy is to treat others as you want to be treated and we love the community we have at Define Defense.

Sander Vanacker is the owner and head instructor of Define Defense Martial Arts in Downtown Boulder.  www.DefineDefense.com

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainable design, today announced that it is hosting an Eco-Expo on Saturday, September 24. This event is in conjunction with Moving Planet’s worldwide rally to demand solutions to the climate crisis and for people across the world to mark one day together as the start to ridding our dependence on fossil fuels. Ecotech’s Eco-Expo is free for the whole family and will give people the chance to learn about green technology and eco-friendly energy options. Several Denver-area business will be at the Expo demonstrating their latest technologies, including Boulder ElectroRide, makers of electric motorcycles, and Splendor Waterless Car Care, a water-free car wash system.

“So many people know they should take care of the environment, but sometimes the task seems too large, so they don’t even start,” said Glenn Wilson, Dean of Ecotech Institute. “This event is designed to help people learn some of the simple steps they can take so when they get home they can start making an impact right away.”

In addition to green-living workshops, the Eco-Expo will demonstrate eco-friendly technology for home, business and personal use. Eco-friendly Denver-area food vendors will also provide food and drinks for purchase at the event.

Throughout the day, attendees can tour Ecotech Institute, a LEED-gold certified campus. Ecotech’s Aurora campus, which opened in January 2011, is expected to produce more than 50,000-kilowatt hours of electricity each year through its on-site wind and solar technologies. Currently about 250 students attend Ecotech, with the first class graduating in July 2012.

What:

Ecotech Institute’s Eco-Expo

Date:                                     
Saturday, September 24

Time:

9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location:                              

Ecotech Institute, 1400 South Abilene Street

Eco-Friendly Companies Attending:

- Boulder ElectroRide

- City Electric Supply

- 99.5 The Mountain

- Green Energy Solutions

- SoleVento

- Splendor Waterless Car Care

- Denver Solar and Wind

For more information:

Learn more about the Ecotech Eco-Expo at http://www.ecotechinstitute.com/ecoexpo.cfm

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers seven highly practical degree programs and one certificate program that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.  More information about Ecotech’s programs can be found at http://www.ecotechinstitute.com/green-facility-college.cfm.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com. The next round of classes begins this fall and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available.

• individualized learning plans,

• courses tailored to students’ specific learning styles and levels,

• flexible scheduling, and

• real-time monitoring of student progress and success

• Seeking a more challenging learning environment,

• Needing support and tutoring in order to stay on track for graduation,

• Looking for a learning option that accounts for their personal learning style,

• Trying to balance a full work schedule with their classes in order to help support the family, or

• Pursuing long-term professional goals (such as becoming a pro athlete, actor or musician) while still trying to complete their highschool degree.

The Executive Director of Colorado’s new public online high school, Audie Rubin brings not only his years of experience in education as both an administrator and teacher; but also his leadership and vision as a pioneer in the use of online education technology to open the classroom and accelerate learning for Colorado students.

“The challenge facing education today is to close the gap between how students live and how they learn,” Rubin said. “At Provost Academy Colorado, we are excited to meet this challenge with our pro-learning, pro-student, pro-success focus to help all students achieve their goals.”

Provost Academy is a state-authorized public virtual high school that is free of charge to residents of Colorado. Backed by EdisonLearning’s experience in preparing more than 1 million students for college and the workforce, Provost Academy provides students personalized learning plans adapted to meet their schedule and specific academic needs.

As a leading advocate and pioneer of online education in Colorado, Rubin brings a valuable knowledge and innovation to his new position. As Director of Student Online Learning for the Jeffco Public Schools, he developed full time online programs, and partnered with district high schools to implement hybrid learning opportunities. During his tenure, Rubin increased the number of students learning online throughout the district from 150 to over 3,000 and the number of online teachers from 20 to over 200 in 18 months. As a principal with Colorado Virtual Academy, Rubin designed and successfully launched the academy’s online high school.

“I have seen the strides students make in their academic success when they are truly engaged in the online experience, and their education matches their individual learning style. But I also know that not all online schools are the same,” Rubin said. “Unlike other online schools, Provost Academy has a robust offering of more than 100 courses, developed in collaboration with faculty of Stanford University’s School of Education. It is also backed by EdisonLearning, the nation's largest partner to public school districts and communities nationwide including here in Colorado.”

In addition to his work in schools, Rubin is advancing online opportunities for Colorado students as a member of the Colorado Department of Education’s Committee for Online Learning. Outside of the field of education, Rubin has partnered with Sun Microsystems and Microsoft to develop educational initiatives in the United States as well as in Japan and Australia. He received his Master’s in Educational Leadership from Colorado University-Denver, and his undergraduate degree from San Jose State University.

“We are extremely pleased and honored that Audie Rubin, a solid educator and true innovator has accepted the leadership role at Provost Academy,” said Jeffrey Popiel, President & CEO of Geotech Environmental Equipment in Denver and chairman of the Provost Academy Colorado board. “Mr. Rubin’s commitment to the mission of Provost Academy and experience adds tremendous value and quality to the education experience our students will receive.”

Provost Academy Colorado is currently enrolling students in grades 9 through 12 for the school year starting August 2010 online at www.co.provostacademy.com or by phone at 888.472.2656.

· Electrical Engineering Technology, Associate of Applied Science

· Energy and Environmental Paralegal, Associate of Applied Science

· Energy Efficiency, Associate of Applied Science

· Environmental Technology, Associate of Applied Science

· Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

· Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

· Sustainable Interior Design, Certificate Program

· Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science