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Boulder, Colorado – June 11, 2015  --  SkillShare, Boulder County’s TimeBank, is celebrating a great milestone! Over 70,000 hours of service, skills, and assistance have been exchanged among SkillShare members.  During the 12-1/2 years SkillShare has been in existence, 477 individual members have made 11,940 exchanges, including services (provided and received) and gifts to other members. 

No money was involved in these exchanges, because SkillShare, as a TimeBank, uses an alternative currency called TimeDollars.  One hour of service to a SkillShare member banks one TimeDollar, which can then be spent on one hour of service from anyone else in the community.

The most popular skills included transportation for medical appointments, errands, and shopping; massage; computer assistance and advice; and packing assistance, moving and hauling.  SkillShare also offers a wide range of other services.  The group's tagline is, "Do what you love, get what you need."

During June, 2015, SkillShare’s celebration includes a membership drive to welcome new members to participate.  People who join and complete a New Member Orientation (NMO) by June 29, 2015 will receive a gift of 4 TimeDollars to start their membership.  The month will end with an all member potluck on June 29 from 4 to 7 pm for new, prospective, and current members.  SkillShare welcomes all people, and we believe in removing all barriers to participating in TimeBanking that we can.

Jan DeCourtney, Co-President of Skillshare, sings the praises of the timebanking system.  “SkillShare is one of the best things that ever happened to me,” Jan said.  “Every aspect of my life has been helped, it’s saved me thousands of dollars, and I’ve made more than a few wonderful friends.” 

SkillShare is a member of the international hOurworld organization, so besides building a strong local community in Boulder County, SkillShare also has access to skills from people around the world in 274 timebanks. Through the international connection of hOurworld, for example, a person could practice Spanish with a native speaker in Latin America or have someone in the UK do research for geneology. 

SkillShare has been in existence since 2003 and does background checks on individuals offering child or elder care.  No one is turned away due to inability to pay membership dues. For more information or to start the application process to join, visit www.skillsharenetwork.org, email skshmem@gmail.com, or leave a message at 720-295-8814. See also our Facebook page for more information.

Visit also www.hourworld.org

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, announced it will host a public event on Thursday, September 20 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. You are invited to take a personalized tour, meet program directors and faculty and learn more about the future of green jobs!

WHAT: Ecotech Institute Open House

DATE: September 20, 2012

TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Ecotech Campus, 1400 S. Abilene Street, Aurora, CO 80012

DETAILS: Free admission; Open to the public

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers six highly practical associate’s degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.  The next round of classes begins in October and applications are always accepted. 

Ecotech’s program line-up includes:

• Power Utility Technician, Associate of Applied Science
• Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Energy Efficiency Program, Associate of Applied Science
• Electrical Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, is now taking applications for its new two-year Power Utility Technician degree program focused on training power utility technicians. The program, which will launch in October, will help fill a need in the power utility sector as a growing number of power utility technicians are retiring from the field and highly trained employees are in demand. Ecotech has responded to this need by creating a practical program focused on the ever-changing power utility industry.

With input from subject matter experts who have more than 55 years of combined utility experience, Ecotech designed its Power Utility Technician program to prepare graduates for careers in power generation, with specialization in power plant operations and maintenance. Students will receive immersive and hands-on training that focuses on providing a solid grounding in, and a comprehensive understanding of, electric utility distribution systems, grid and smart grid.

“We are excited about the applicability and cutting-edge nature of this program and are thankful to industry gurus Dan Sachse and Mark Fox for sharing their expertise,” says Michael Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “Demand is at an all-time high for people who understand the grid and the future of power utilities and we look forward to leading the way in preparing students for jobs in this area.”

Upon successful completion of the Power Utility Technician program, students will be prepared to:

• Apply the fundamentals of power generation, so they can operate and maintain power plants
• Use their knowledge of high voltage systems to maintain and operate grid infrastructure, smart grids, and distribution systems
• Use the fundamentals of electrical theory and related knowledge to design, build, repair, calibrate and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls and machinery
• Meet industry standards within the electrical engineering, power production and distribution fields

Ecotech’s comprehensive Power Utility Technician program offers a balanced education of soft skills (communication, workplace etiquette), and math and science basics and technology skills, but the educational emphasis is on hands-on, practical training in modern labs.

Ecotech Institute’s website outlines each of its programs to help answer common questions such as, “Is this program right for me?”, “What will I learn?” and “Why Ecotech?”  In addition to offering curriculum information, the site explains what to expect from the program, which skill sets are most desirable for this field of study, and what careers are available in cleantech industries.

With the addition of the Power Utility Technician program, Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers six highly practical associate’s degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. 

Ecotech’s next round of classes begins in October and applications are always accepted.

In addition to the Power Utility program, Ecotech Institute offers the following:

• Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Energy Efficiency Program, Associate of Applied Science
• Electrical Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

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Photograph © Teri Fotheringham Photography 2011

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and sustainability, is hosting a Cleantech Jobs Forum on Thursday, June 21. The forum is open to the public and will feature members of Ecotech’s nationally renowned Board of Advisors, who are in town for Ecotech’s first graduation that afternoon. The forum is open to anyone interested in clean technology, including industry leaders, people currently working in this field and those who are considering a career change.

WHAT:                       

Ecotech Cleantech Jobs Forum

WHEN:                       

Thursday, June 21, 2012

TIME:                       

8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

WHERE:           

Ecotech Institute

1400 S. Abilene Street

Aurora, CO  80012

PANELISTS:            

Dr. Abbas Ghessemi, Chair of the Ecotech Advisory Board and Director of Institute for Energy and Environment (IE&E) at New Mexico State University.

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

Colin M. Coyne, Managing Principal, Coyne Group

Craig Mataczynski, Chief Executive, Renewable Energy Systems Americas

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

MODERATOR:             

Glenn Wilson, Academic Dean at Ecotech Institute

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers five highly practical associate’s degree programs 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 July 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, 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’s first group of graduates crossed the stage on June 21, 2012 and dozens of graduates are already working in the cleantech industry. Three companies have hired a combined 20 graduates, five additional companies have hired one or two graduates, and several students have offers pending.  The companies range in size and specialty, with renewable energy graduates receiving jobs in six different states.

In addition to demand from hiring organizations and job placements across the country, positive feedback from new employers about the graduates has been tremendous.

“Hiring managers across the board have been extremely complimentary about the quality of our graduates and their job readiness,” said Michael Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “One company even said that Ecotech graduates are the best new hires he has ever worked with. Another company actually created a new position to better utilize the skills and knowledge of an Ecotech graduate. We are thrilled to see our alumni already experiencing great success and making an impact in the workplace.”

Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and careers in sustainability. At the school’s first-ever graduation, forty-one students received their associate’s degrees in the following areas: Wind Energy Technology, Solar Energy Technology, Renewable Energy Technologyand Electrical Engineering Technology.

Former Governor Bill Ritter, who currently serves as the Director of the Colorado State University Center for the New Energy Economy, delivered the commencement speech. He offered perspectives from his position as governor, discussed Colorado’s aggressive role in the new energy economy, and applauded the promising future of the cleantech and clean energy industries.

“We were in the worst recession since the Great Depression and the only part of the private sector that grew during that was the cleantech/clean energy [sector],” said Ritter. “For your purposes, you chose right. You chose well. You chose the thing that grew, it has the potential to grow and grow and grow.”

The Ecotech curriculum is focused on the development of soft skills (communication, workplace etiquette), and math and science basics and technology skills, but the educational emphasis is on hands-on, practical training. Ecotech’s national board of advisors, who all work in cleantech industries, helped design the school’s curriculum, providing coursework that reflects what students will experience upon graduation.

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers five highly practical associate’s degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energyemployers. Ecotech’s second commencement will be in September.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit us online at www.ecotechinstitute.comor call 877-326-5576. The next round of classes begins in October 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.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and sustainability, will hold its first graduation on Thursday, June 21, 2012. Forty-two students will receive their associate’s degrees, which prepares them for a career in the clean technology industry. The graduates will receive degrees in the following areas: Wind Energy Technology, Solar Energy Technology, Renewable Energy Technology and Electrical Engineering Technology.  Former Governor Bill Ritter, who currently serves as the Director of the Colorado State University Center for the New Energy Economy, will deliver the commencement speech at the graduation.

"As Governor, I was proud when Ecotech Institute chose Colorado as the place to locate the country's first private technical institute devoted solely to preparing the workforce for the clean energy economy,” said Bill Ritter, Former Colorado Governor and current Director of the Colorado State University Center for the New Energy Economy.  “It is a privilege to play a role in Ecotech's first commencement, and to see the efforts of the staff and faculty come to fruition."

Students in this first graduating class began classes in a temporary facility in June 2010 as Ecotech completed an overhaul of an existing vacant building. In January 2011, they moved to the current LEED gold-certified campus in Aurora, Colorado. Today, Ecotech has more than 500 students and continues to grow.

“This initial group of students are visionaries, as they signed up for classes before they were able to see the beautiful campus and cutting-edge labs,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “Now, a variety of clean tech companies are offering them excellent positions and their forward-thinking commitment is paying off. We applaud each of them and look forward to watching their success.”

At Ecotech all students develop soft skills (communication, workplace etiquette), and math and science basics and technology skills, but the educational emphasis is on hands-on, practical training.  Ecotech’s prestigious national board of advisors, who all work in clean tech industries, helped design the school’s curriculum, providing coursework that reflects what the students will experience upon graduation. For a demographic breakdown of this first graduating class, please visit http://www.ecotechinstitute.com/pdf/ecotech-graduate-information.pdf.  

“Ecotech is producing well-prepared graduates that are highly sought in industries such as ours,” said Jesse Masters, Recruiter from M-I SWACO, a Schlumberger Company. “Its curriculum and practical labs offer complete training that makes new employees ready to hit the ground running. We were very impressed with the interviews we conducted with students from this graduating class and are excited to have several of these graduates join our team.”

Ecotech’s campus is LEED-gold certified and supports a commitment to sustainable living. The school generates approximately 5-10 percent of its energy from on-site clean, renewable energy sources such as rooftop wind turbines, solar panels, integral thin solar technologies embedded into the glass of the building canopy, and solar trees.

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers five highly practical associate’s degree programs 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 July and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, has named Zhanna Stavina as the school’s new Director of Admissions.

In her role, Stavina will lead a team of admissions associates who serve as liaisons for potential and incoming students. She will also make and maintain connections with students, organizations, guidance counselors, military liaisons and others who may benefit from an Ecotech education or partnership.

Ms. Stavina has recently served as both a director of enrollment and an instructor at the University of Phoenix in Lone Tree, Colorado. She simultaneously taught in the School of Business and Social Sciences while successfully leading a team of admissions professionals. Before joining Ecotech, she also worked as an enrollment manager and enrollment counselor, receiving accolades as a top performer. She has also worked in career services and admissions at Denver School of Massage Therapy and ITT Technical Institute.

“Zhanna’s experience and expertise is perfect for Ecotech and she’s someone who exudes enthusiasm about what we deliver to students, employers, partners and the community,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “We are delighted to have her on board and look forward to Zhanna representing our school and executive team.”

Stavina received her Master of Business Administration from University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from University of Colorado.  

“It is an honor be in a position where I can share Ecotech Institute with people who could benefit from its unique offerings,” said Stavina. “In a short time, Ecotech has proven to offer quality education, a strong community and graduates who are making a difference. I am proud to be part of the Ecotech family.”

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers six highly practical renewable energy degree programs created with employer input 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 October and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. 

Spring is the time of year when high school students are gearing up to make decisions about the future, weighing their options for education, careers and personal growth. Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability, recently hosted more than 200 high school visitors and invites all guidance and career counselors, educators, high school students and families to come take a specialized tour. During the visit, participants can see the brand new LEED-certified campus, step foot into state-of-the-art labs, and deepen their knowledge about careers in the renewable energy sector.

“We are thrilled when young adults come to discover more about the promising future of green careers and the comprehensive education that Ecotech offers,” said Kolby Chase, Ecotech Institute’s director of admissions. “Young folks who want to help sustain our planet and are looking to walk the talk really enjoy learning about areas such as wind, solar and energy efficiency.”

Ecotech’s curriculum addresses both job-specific technical training and soft skills (e.g. communication and work ethic) through comprehensive coursework and lab time. The campus has seven computer labs, nine clean energy labs and 11 lecture classrooms, including labs that focus on electricity, electronics, solar, wind and safety, as well as one outdoor solar residence lab. All labs offer progressive equipment to facilitate practical learning of basic and advanced electronics, the fundamentals and applications of wind and solar power generation and safety skills.  Electricity, electronics, power, solar and hydraulics labs contain Lab-Volt® systems.

A campus tour of Ecotech can be as formal or informal as necessary, depending on a group’s needs. To set up a visit of any size, call Kolby Chase at 877-326-5576.

Ecotech Institute will have its first graduating class in June 2012. Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers 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.

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.

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 created MORE (Mentoring Others Results in Excellence), a mentorship program to help incoming students.  Now that Ecotech has students entering into their third and fourth terms, many of these more experienced students have great expertise and knowledge about Ecotech, the course material and the Denver Metro area.  These qualities are great attributes to help acclimate first-term students with their surroundings.

“Many of our students are not only studying subject matter that they are unfamiliar with, but they are also taking classes in a new building and may even be living in an entirely new city or state,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute.  “Now that we have students who have walked our halls many times and are familiar with the Denver Metro area and Ecotech’s course material, we want to embrace the leadership skills of these students and give them the chance to share their knowledge and serve as a resource for our new students.”

The mentorship program is open to all first-term Ecotech students, but to qualify to become a mentor the students must meet several criteria including:

• Have a minimum GPA of 3.5.
• Have completed a minimum of two terms at Ecotech.
• Make time to meet with his or her “buddy” student at least one time each week throughout the term.
• Willingness to develop study groups and help with tutoring.

Right now Ecotech has seven student mentors signed up for the program.  One of those students, who actually brought up the idea for a mentorship program,  is Michael Streight. Streight is serving his 22nd year in the Navy, but he sees his military career coming to an end since the aircraft system he works with is being phased out.  With one career on its last legs, Streight says he wants a future career that has growing potential.  Streight is now working full-time, while going to school four nights a week.  With dozens of new students starting at Ecotech each term, Streight started thinking about the mentor program the Navy uses and wondered how Ecotech could implement a similar program.  That idea helped lead to Ecotech’s mentorship program today.

“It’s a great program because as mentors we’ve been in their shoes,” said Streight.  “We’ve had their classes and had the different instructors.  We can also offer our opinions on non-school subjects such as the best areas to live and ideas for things to do on the weekends.”

With 25 percent of Ecotech’s students relocating to Colorado to attend school, this program helps students instantly have a buddy when they move.

“We have students from as far away as Florida and Maryland coming to Ecotech so it’s important those students especially feel connected, since their friends and family may be thousands of miles from their new home,” said Seifert.

To help with relocation, Ecotech has also created a relocation guide that details information about Aurora and the Denver Metro area.  That guide can be found at http://www.ecotechinstitute.com/ecotech-location.cfm.

Ecotech Institute, 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.

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.

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.