NMC Students Learn to be Energy Auditors
TRAVERSE CITY -- A new program at Northwestern Michigan College is preparing workers for new, green careers.
The 12 week program is the first of its kind in the state. In incorporates lessons on heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and other aspects of green building. The classroom knowledge is then applied with hands-on training.
The first classes began this spring and are wrapping up this week. In their final few classes, the students are walking through homes, inspecting them for energy leaks, and putting their new knowledge to the test using tools of the trade.
Course instructor, Ric Evans, says from here, the students can go on to become energy auditors or work with contractors to work in quality control. “We’re going to be needing more of this, “says Evans, “especially with all of the energy optimization programs going on through the Michigan Public Service Commission. They’ve mandated that all Michigan utilities companies provide incentives for people to reduce consumption.”
Among the new incentives are coupons for energy audits and rebates for upgrading outdated appliances. Evans says, “I recently met with DTE energy and they’re aware of the program and happy we’re doing this. There’s going to be a growing need for auditors around the state.”
Evans says jobs in this field will become more and more available in upcoming years. “These jobs are coming,” says Evans. “We're keeping ahead of the curve at NMC by offering this training. When the industry catches up and the jobs open up, we’re going to have people ready to fill those positions.”
One group of students finishing their certifications this week came into the program through Michigan’s No Worker Left Behind program. The program offers financial assistance to displaced workers for education and training in new career fields.
David Williams is among this group and has a residential construction company, Martin Williams Design and Contracting. He enrolled in this class to learn to build more efficiently and perhaps gain a business edge. “I’ve been in construction for over 25 years,” says Williams, “and I am amazed at how much I learned.”
This program will be offered again this fall at NMC. For more information: www.nmc.edu, www.nmc.edu/ees/energycenter/energycategories.html
