DENVER—
The U.S. Department of Labor estimates there are more than 11-million people currently unemployed in the nation.With the shift to and new financing for the "New Energy Economy," there is a predicted 411% increase in "Green" jobs nation-wide. The only problem is many under and unemployed do not have the education, training or experience to tap into this flourishing market.
In Jefferson County, iCAST has partnered with workforce training centers, community colleges, unions, certified engineers, and has created a training program for folks transitioning into green collar industries.
So far, more than 150 students have participated in the week-long programs and more than 180 will take advantage of the 15 million dollar Department of Labor grant that is funding the program. iCAST will place 210 trainees in permanent positions and another 50 will get temporary internships.
Courses include: Energy Efficiency Auditing and Installations, Application-Scale Wind Installations, and Solar Installations. The program uses the WIRED program as its model in offering Green Collar job training for unemployed and underemployed.
