Category Archives: Education

Ecotech Institute’s Free Online Course, “Introduction to Sustainability”, Changes the Way Students Approach Sustainability

Student Feedback Demonstrates Appreciation and Value for the Course

Denver, Colorado, April 23, 2014 – Student feedback from Ecotech Institute’s free online “Introduction to Sustainability” course proved the opportunity was valued by students across the globe and changed the way they approached sustainability initiatives.

Kyle Crider, Ecotech Institute’s Program Chair and Manager of Environmental Operations, led the free online course for a second time earlier this year. There was a diverse mix of students, both men and women from all educational backgrounds and walks of life. Many students applied what they learned in the course to their communities and have said they’ll continue to expand on their education now that the course is complete. The course material applies to general green energy jobs, including solar jobs, wind turbine jobs, and overall careers in renewable energy.

“The first Intro to Sustainability course last year was such a wild success, we felt like we had no choice but to bring it back,” Crider said. “I’m so happy that we did. The feedback we received proves that the course truly changes students’ lives. By allowing people to learn free of charge, we can help more people learn what sustainable living is all about.”

The Introduction to Sustainability course is a “massive online open course” (MOOC), offered through the Canvas Network. MOOCs are a popular way for educational institutions to offer free courses to the public. Based in Aurora, Colorado, Ecotech Institute is the only college entirely focused on sustainability-related job training.

The MOOC course explores various definitions of sustainability used by governments, businesses, and individuals to address environmental, societal, and economic problems around the world. In addition, students learn ways to apply sustainable concepts to their own lives. As part of the course, students have to complete a capstone project that involves writing their own sustainability-focused mission statement, vision, and goals.

Some of the feedback includes:

“Thank you, Kyle! It’s been a rewarding experience. So much so that I decided to apply for a formal course of study, MSc in Environmental Tech. I have an interview with the school in a couple of weeks!”

“Thank you for such a wonderful class. By allowing people to learn free of charge, you have taught so many more. Just finding out about the Aral Sea in the first lesson has been the buzz of my village for weeks. Just thank you for implanting this knowledge. I so appreciate it.”

“I wasn’t aware of how far solar energy has come. I’ve been a fan of it but didn’t realize the cost had dropped so much that it was actually viable.”

“I never thought that one day I would be doing a course with people from different continents and countries. Technology really improved our standard of living, so there is no need to go overseas to study when you can study at home.”

Due to the overwhelming positive feedback, Ecotech Institute plans to offer future MOOC courses. The school will provide updates on future courses through its Facebook page, which users can “like” to access at https://www.facebook.com/EcotechInstitute. For more information on Ecotech Institute visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical green energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Kaplan University School of Business Aligns HR and Financial Planning Specializations with Industry Designations to Help Build Employable Skills

Curriculum alignment with the Society for Human Resource Management and Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards provides practical education that prepares students for careers in growth industries.

Davenport, Iowa, USA (April 23, 2014) — Kaplan University, a leader in higher education innovation, today announced two professional designations for its School of Business with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP® Board).

“Alignment with the professional standards of these two organizations marks another milestone in our work to synch the educational experience with workplace realities. These achievements provide evidence of our work to meet the needs of employers and further help our students develop employable skills,” said Thomas Boyd, dean of the Kaplan University School of Business.

SHRM-designated Human Resources Specializations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, opportunities in the human resources sector are growing. Their research findings project 20.5 percent employment growth for HR specialists by 2020, leading to 61,600 new jobs and 36,700 replacement jobs. With this in mind, Kaplan University School of Business has partnered with SHRM to align the school’s human resources curriculum in ways that help students better develop the skills that employers value.

SHRM – the world’s largest professional HR association – has acknowledged that the following programs at the Kaplan University School of Business fully align with its HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates for minimum content areas that should be studied by HR students at the undergraduate and graduate levels:

• Master of Business Administration with a specialization in human resources
• Master of Science in Management with a specialization in human resources
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a career focus area in human resources

For more information on the human resources specialization programs at Kaplan University School of Business and their alignment with SHRM, visit: http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/business/shrm.aspx.

CFP Board-registered Financial Planning Specialization
As many Americans are quickly reaching retirement age, the need for personal financial planning expertise becomes more prevalent. According to Money Magazine and Payscale.com, the financial planning profession is expected to grow 41% by 2016. Certification from the CFP Board can be a key differentiator for firms and individual financial professionals seeking to demonstrate the quality of their services and the value they provide to clients. The Master of Science in Finance with a specialization in financial planning at the Kaplan University School of Business is now offered as a CFP Board-registered program. Through this affiliation, students in the program will have access to curriculum content that helps them prepare for the national CFP® Certification exam administered by the CFP Board.

For more information about the CFP-Board Certified financial planning specialization at Kaplan University School of Business, visit: http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/business/cfp-board-registered.aspx.

About Kaplan University
Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (http://www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves approximately 43,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.

Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education Group and Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. serves approximately 60,000 students online and through 56 campus-based schools across the United States. Kaplan’s higher education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan serves students of all ages through a wide array of offerings including higher education, test preparation, professional training and programs for kids in grades K-12. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company and its largest division. For more information, visit http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu.

About SHRM
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the world’s largest association devoted to human resource management. The Society serves the needs of HR professionals and advances the interests of the HR profession. Founded in 1948, SHRM has more than 250,000 members in 140 countries and more than 575 affiliated chapters.

About CFP Board
The mission of Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. is to benefit the public by granting the CFP® certification and upholding it as the recognized standard of excellence for personal financial planning. The Board of Directors, in furthering CFP Board’s mission, acts on behalf of the public, CFP® professionals and other stakeholders. CFP Board owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™, and the federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. CFP Board currently authorizes nearly 69,000 individuals to use these marks in the U.S.

Media Contact:
Amy Hawkinson
Kaplan University School of Business
954-515-3603
ahawkinson@kaplan.edu
http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/business.aspx

Kaplan University Launches Environmental Policy Center

School of Social and Behavioral Sciences creates a news feed site with daily updates on environmental policy topics and trends.

Davenport, Iowa, USA (April 22, 2014) — In honor of Earth Day, Kaplan University, a leader in higher education innovation, launched its Environmental Policy Center news site that captures and curates environmental policy news and trends from across the Internet.

The Environmental Policy Center was created under the guidance of faculty and administrators from the environmental policy degree programs within the Kaplan School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. It gives readers a convenient, centralized source for daily updates on key trending topics related to the environment. Editors sift through all the day’s news from multiple sources, placing the top stories on one central site.

“The expansion of the green economy is generating demand for new skills and specialized knowledge in many business and government sectors, as well as a thirst for knowledge on environmental policy trends and developments,” said Sara Sander, Dean and Vice President of the Kaplan University School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “Sound sustainability and environmental decisions begin with a balanced understanding of the environment and the ability to stay abreast of the latest findings, regulations and trends. This consciousness inspired us to create Kaplan University’s Environmental Policy Center, to help those who are interested in environmental policy scan through relevant news from multiple sources.”

The editors of the news feed monitor content from a broad spectrum of traditional news sources as well as individual thought leaders from government, education, the private sector, cause-related nonprofit organizations and even private citizens. News is organized into sections including environmental legislation & regulations, trends & ideas and a section that contains content written by or featuring Kaplan faculty and leadership. To learn more, visit the Kaplan Environmental Policy Center.

Other special-focus Centers within Kaplan University include the Center for Excellence in Financial Services, the Center for Public Service and Career Moves.

About Kaplan University
Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (http://www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves approximately 43,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.

Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education Group and Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. serves approximately 60,000 students online and through 56 campus-based schools across the United States. Kaplan’s higher education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan serves students of all ages through a wide array of offerings including higher education, test preparation, professional training and programs for kids in grades K-12. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company and its largest division. For more information, visit http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu.

Media Contact:
Amy Hawkinson
Director of Public Relations
Kaplan University
Office: 954-515-3603
Mobile: 954-459-1324
ahawkinson@kaplan.edu
http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu

Easter Eggstravaganza Will Include Family-Friendly Activities and Giveaways

Bryant & Stratton College’s free event on April 12 will offer pictures with the Easter Bunny, refreshments and raffles for all ages

Buffalo, NY, April 01, 2014 – All three local campuses of Bryant & Stratton College will host a free community event on Saturday, April 12 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Easter Eggstravaganza events are open to the public and will have activities and fun for all ages. At the event, attendees can:

* Enter to win a $500 shopping spree at Toys “R” Us

* Have their picture taken with the Easter Bunny

* Enjoy Easter crafts, raffles, giveaways and refreshments

Bryant & Stratton College invites its students, alumni and all local residents to join the event at any of the college’s three local campuses in Amherst, Buffalo and Orchard Park.

“The Easter Eggstravaganza is a great opportunity for the college to give back to local families, connect with the community and enjoy the festivities,” said Paul Bahr, Director of the Western New York Campuses of Bryant & Stratton College. “The event was a big hit last year with over 1,000 guests, and we’re excited to be hosting it this year on all three of our campuses in the area.”

EVENT DETAILS
What: Bryant & Stratton College Easter Eggstravaganza
When: Saturday, April 12
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Bryant & Stratton College Western New York Campuses
Amherst Campus, 3650 Millersport Highway, Getzville 14068
Buffalo Campus, 465 Main Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo 14203
Southtowns Campus, 200 Redtail Road, Orchard Park 14127
Cost: Complimentary

For more information about the event, call the nearest campus – Amherst (716) 625-6300; Buffalo (716) 884-9120; or Orchard Park (716) 677-9500. For information about Bryant & Stratton College and its degree programs and campuses, visit www.bryantstratton.edu.

About Bryant & Stratton College:
Bryant & Stratton College is a private career college delivering outcomes-based education and training through a flexible, contemporary curriculum in a personalized environment.  The College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Bryant & Stratton College has campus locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Professional Skill Center. For 160 years, Bryant & Stratton College has been providing real world education leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees and professional certificates in the fields of healthcare, technology, legal, business, & graphic design. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu/disclosures. General information can also be found on the College’s website at www.bryantstratton.edu.

Contact:
Anne Jenkins
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
703-624-6125
ajenkins@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Drew and INTO University Partnerships Form Joint Venture to Enrich International Learning Experience

INTO New York at Drew University will build on university’s legacy of internationalization

Madison, NJ, March 17, 2014 – Drew University and INTO University Partnerships today announced a joint venture to support and enhance international education on campus and greatly expand learning opportunities for international and domestic students. The partnership, formed under the name INTO New York at Drew University, will support Drew’s strategic internationalization goals in several ways:

Grow and diversify the international student population on campus;
Establish international educational programs and support services that will expand all students’ social, global and professional engagement; and
Further build the university’s global reach and reputation.

INTO partners with leading universities in the United States, United Kingdom and Asia to advance each institution’s comprehensive internationalization efforts and expand their global reach and impact. The joint venture with Drew reflects INTO’s commitment to improve global access to quality higher education and to provide students with an increasing breadth of study options.

The partnership comes at a time when record numbers of international students are studying in the United States with more than 800,000 students enrolled in academic year 2012-2013, according to the Institute of International Education. Through INTO’s extensive global recruitment network across 75 countries, the partnership plans to seize this opportunity and grow Drew University’s international student population at an optimal rate. The first cohort of students at INTO New York at Drew University will enroll in academic year 2014-2015.

The INTO New York at Drew University model is unique in that it leverages Drew’s distinctive qualities as a supportive liberal arts institution, offering a small-school environment with a big-world experience less than an hour from midtown Manhattan. Drew’s promise, “We Deliver Full-Impact Learning to the World,” melds a challenging academic curriculum, a global learning culture and extensive New York City experiential opportunities, all of which enable a student’s greatest success.

“The INTO partnership is an exciting venture for the Drew community and helps us build on our longstanding international programs at home and abroad, including launching the first United Nations Semester in the country in 1962,” said Drew President Vivian A. Bull. “Inviting more international undergraduates to join the Drew community offers the rest of the student body the opportunity to learn with, and from, their global peers, giving them an advantage in a highly connected world.”

INTO New York at Drew University will offer international students a unique program in which they complete the first two years of undergraduate academic and English language coursework at Drew. Upon successful completion, students will then be eligible to complete the remaining two years of a degree program at Drew or they may choose to finish their degree at a number of well-known institutions in the New York metropolitan area.

An INTO partnership transforms a campus through broad engagement of the entire university community by creating opportunities for faculty and staff, enhancing the educational experience for domestic students and improving outcomes for international students. Drew University will retain control of all academic aspects of the partnership and its brand.

“Comprehensive internationalization cannot be a ‘one size fits all’ effort. One of the great advantages of the U.S. higher education system is that it is a rich tapestry of models and structures,” said John Sykes, Group Managing Director, INTO University Partnerships. “Smaller, private, well-established liberal arts institutions like Drew have much to offer international students, but may not have the resources to reach them. We are excited to introduce this unique study option to prospective international students while investing in Drew’s efforts to foster global perspectives through comprehensive internationalization.”

Drew University joins other successful INTO partnerships in North America, including Oregon State University, University of South Florida, Colorado State University, Marshall University and George Mason University. Since 2006, INTO has successfully launched partnerships with 19 universities around the world.

For more information about Drew University, please visit www.drew.edu or follow the university @DrewUniversity. More information on INTO University Partnerships can be found at http://www.into-corporate.com or follow INTO @INTOnetwork.

About Drew University
Drew University is a private, liberal arts university located in Madison, N.J., just 29 miles west of New York City. Ranked among the top liberal arts institutions nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes and Washington Monthly, Drew is also listed in Princeton Review’s Best 378 Colleges. The Drew promise—We Deliver Full-Impact Learning to the World—emphasizes the university’s commitment to borderless education that enables a student’s greatest success in a globally connected world. Drew has a total student enrollment of more than 2,000 in three schools: The College of Liberal Arts, the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies and the Drew Theological School. The undergraduate program offers degrees in 30 different disciplines, while Caspersen and the Theological School offer degrees at the masters of arts and doctorate levels.

About INTO University Partnerships
Universities partner with INTO to advance their ambitious comprehensive internationalization agendas. INTO’s deeply embedded joint ventures create a globally diverse and integrated campus, improve the overall student experience, and increase international students’ access to higher education. Through INTO’s resources and expertise, institutions expand their ability to create highly supportive academic environments, establish state-of-the-art learning and living spaces and deliver university-designed programs. Since 2006, INTO has established partnerships with 19 universities in the UK, the US and China. These partnerships have helped more than 7,500 international students from over 100 countries begin their academic studies at partner institutions in North America, including Oregon State University, the University of South Florida, Colorado State University, Marshall University and George Mason University.

Contact:
Anne Jenkins
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
703-624-6125
ajenkins@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Bryant & Stratton College Announces Career Week Events for Local Job Seekers

Series of events March 24-27 include one-on-one career sessions and a career fair with paid, volunteer and training opportunities

Orchard Park, NY, March 17, 2014 – Bryant & Stratton College today announced it will host Career Week March 24 through March 27 open to all job seekers in Western New York, whether they are first-time job seekers or anyone looking for ways to improve their job search strategy. The week’s events include a career fair with over 40 local companies and organizations expected to participate, and the College is offering free, one-on-one appointments for job seekers with Career Services experts who can give job search advice and help with resumes and interview skills.

Job seekers can connect with local employers about open positions, volunteer opportunities and training options available at the career fair on Thursday, March 27 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Bryant & Stratton’s campus in Orchard Park. Anyone needing help with their job search can book a free, one-hour appointment with a Career Services representative Monday, March 24 through Wednesday, March 26 at any of the three campuses in Amherst, Buffalo or Orchard Park. At the sessions, local residents can take advantage of:

* Customized feedback on their resume or assistance with resume creation  

* Expert advice on drafting cover letters

* Instructions and strategies on how to effectively search for jobs using keywords and popular job posting websites

* Mock interview practice

* Opportunities to have their resume shared with the College’s network of local employers

“Being successful in today’s tough job market means understanding the latest job search trends and resources out there – like how to write your resume so it gets noticed and where to look for opportunities online,” said Jeff Tredo, Director of New York State Campuses of Bryant & Stratton College. “We help students every day navigate the complex job search, application and interview process so they can be successful in their careers. Career Week is an opportunity for us to extend our resources, expertise and employer network to the Western New York community. Those who attend will feel more prepared for their job search and make valuable connections with local employers.”

CAREER WEEK EVENTS
What: Bryant & Stratton College Career Sessions
When: March 24-26
Time: By appointment, please call to set up an appointment
Amherst Campus: 716-625-6300
Buffalo Campus: 716-884-9120
Southtowns Campus in Orchard Park: 716-677-9500
Where: Bryant & Stratton College Western New York Campuses
Amherst Campus, 3650 Millersport Highway, Getzville 14068
Buffalo Campus, 465 Main Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo 14203
Southtowns Campus, 200 Redtail Road, Orchard Park 14127
Cost: Complimentary

What: Bryant & Stratton College Career Fair
When: March 27
Time: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Bryant & Stratton College Southtowns Campus, 200 Redtail Road, Orchard Park 14127
Cost: Complimentary
Contact: 716-677-9500

The Bryant & Stratton College Career Sessions are open to all residents in Western New York. Those interested in setting an appointment with the Career Services team can call the campus of their choice.

For more information about Bryant & Stratton College and its degree programs and campuses, visit www.bryantstratton.edu.

About Bryant & Stratton College:
Bryant & Stratton College is a private career college delivering outcomes-based education and training through a flexible, contemporary curriculum in a personalized environment. The College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Bryant & Stratton College has campus locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Professional Skill Center. For 160 years, Bryant & Stratton College has been providing real world education leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees and professional certificates in the fields of healthcare, technology, legal, business, & graphic design.  For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu/disclosures. General information can also be found on the College’s website at www.bryantstratton.edu.

Contact:
Anne Jenkins
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
703-624-6125
ajenkins@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Grassroots Idea by Ecotech Institute Student Inspires Float in The Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade

About 150 students, staff and friends expected to participate in the parade to make it truly “green”

Denver, CO, March 13, 2014 – Chris Stevens, an Ecotech Institute student, wanted to help pick up recycling along The Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade route in order to keep this favorite green holiday truly as “green” as possible. He took his idea to parade organizers and from there it turned into a float in the parade that could gather recycling along the route. Students and staff at Ecotech Institute rallied around Chris and today they are making final preparations on the float, which will include a student made recycling bin to collect all recyclables collected during the parade, a truck outfitted with solar panels and a wind turbine.

“It has been remarkable watching my vision come to life,” said Chris. “I originally just wanted to help pick up trash and it’s turned into so much more. Building our Eco-Float has been an exciting adventure that brought several students together in great ways and I’m so proud of what we’ve put together. Our efforts will keep the parade route much cleaner.”

Ecotech Institute is the first and only school in the U.S. that is solely dedicated to sustainable energy, such as solar and wind. Chris is pursuing a degree in electrical engineering technology and will graduate this April. For him, this idea was simple, but sends a powerful message.

“We have to care about not only where our energy is coming from as we look ahead, but also how we’re taking care of our planet today. Small changes can make a difference and we’re excited to help divert trash from the landfill – giving it a second life,” said Chris.

To see images of the float’s progress you can keep up with the construction team by following Ecotech’s social media updates on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/EcotechInstitute and Twitter at @Ecotech_Inst.

Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colo., currently offers eight associate’s degree programs:

* Facility Management Technology
* Energy Efficiency
* Solar Energy Technology
* Wind Energy Technology
* Renewable Energy Technology
* Electrical Energy Technology
* Power Utility Technician
* Business Administration – Sustainability.

For more information on Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Ecotech Institute:
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Ecotech Institute’s Clean Jobs Index Shows a 19 Percent Increase in Clean Jobs in 2013

National study shows more than 3.5 million clean jobs available in 2013, with a 57 percent increase in solar jobs

Denver, CO, March 07, 2014 – Ecotech Institute’s Clean Jobs Index, a tool to compare states’ use and development of clean and sustainable energy, found more than 3.5 million job postings in the clean energy sector last year. This is a 19 percent increase from 2012. The Clean Jobs Index classifies clean energy jobs based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics description, which says that a clean job is part of a business that benefits the environment or conserves natural resources.

Ecotech Institute, the only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability training, created the Clean Jobs Index to provide objective job information about the renewable energy industry. The Index also looks at various sustainability factors such as alternative fueling stations, LEED projects and total energy consumption across the U.S.

Highlights from the Clean Jobs Index 2013

Number of U.S. Clean Jobs Postings in 2013:
3,599,022 (a 19 percent increase from 2012)

Large Growth in Clean Jobs (compared to 2012 clean jobs postings)
Solar Jobs – up 57 percent
Wind Jobs – up 20 percent
Renewable Energy Jobs – up 9.3 percent

Clean Jobs by Population (Jobs per 100,000 residents)
1. North Dakota – 2,554
2. Iowa – 1,811
3. Massachusetts – 1,768
4. Delaware – 1,700
5. Alaska – 1,644
6. Minnesota – 1,557
7. Maine – 1,549
8. Nebraska – 1,510
9. Washington – 1,461
10. Kansas – 1,456

Clean Jobs by State
1. California – 276,493
2. Texas – 268,349
3. New York – 190,964
4. Illinois – 168,998
5. Michigan – 143,319
6. Ohio – 129,447
7. Pennsylvania – 126,012
8. Massachusetts – 115,748
9. Florida – 115,066
10. Washington – 98,252

States With the Most Incentives for Sustainability and Renewables (in no particular order):
Minnesota
California
Oregon
Washington
Texas
Indiana
Colorado
Florida
New York
Iowa

“Renewable energy is the future and this data proves that more than ever,” said Kyle Crider, Ecotech Institute’s Program Chair and Manager of Environmental Operations. “With solar jobs up 54 percent and clean tech jobs up overall nearly 20 percent, it’s definitely an exciting time in the sustainable energy industry.”

Ecotech Institute’s Clean Jobs Index is an aggregation of statistics by state. Although it may indicate a greater possibility for employment in the clean economy sector, the Clean Jobs Index in no way indicates the presence or the promise of any specific job opportunities. Data for the Index is gathered regularly from independent research entities including: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, U.S. Energy Information Administration, U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Green Building Council.

To learn more about the Clean Jobs Index, please visit http://www.ecotechinstitute.com/cleanjobsindex. To learn more about Ecotech Institute, go to http://www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Ecotech Institute Students Graduate “Job Ready” With Industry Certifications

Programs allow new professionals to enter desired industries and hit the ground running

Denver, CO, February 26, 2014 – Students attending Ecotech Institute, the only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability training, can now receive industry certification from three distinct national standards development and credential organizations. This provides Ecotech Institute graduates the best foundation possible to immediately make an impact in their field.

Ecotech Institute students have the opportunity to graduate with certifications from North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), and Building Performance Institute (BPI).

These designations expand graduates’ career opportunities. For example, the BPI certification ensures that new professionals interested in careers in state-run energy efficiency and weatherization programs are qualified for these positions, since many of these programs require the BPI certification.

“We are proud of our graduates and the knowledge and complete skill sets they have when they leave Ecotech,” said Chris Gorrie, Academic Dean of Ecotech Institute. “When our graduates enter the workforce they can immediately make a difference in their career because of our hands-on green energy training labs and the sustainable energy-related courses our students go through.”

Ecotech Institute has nine renewable energy labs that students can take advantage of to get a hands-on education. This year, Ecotech Institute’s energy efficiency lab will also open, helping students prepare for sustainable energy industry certifications on-site.

The new energy efficiency lab is in addition to Ecotech Institute’s Wind Training Lab, which simulates operational and safety functions on large, commercial wind turbines. These labs further position Ecotech Institute as the premier destination for renewable energy education.

Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colo., currently offers eight associate’s degree programs:

Facility Management Technology
Energy Efficiency
Solar Energy Technology
Wind Energy Technology
Renewable Energy Technology
Electrical Energy Technology
Power Utility Technician
Business Administration – Sustainability.

For more information on Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Ecotech Institute to Host Webinar on the Demand for Skilled Labor in Renewable Energy Careers and Sustainable Industries

30-minute webinar will discuss what’s missing in the hiring pool for green energy jobs

Denver, CO, January 24, 2014 – On Tuesday, January 28, Ecotech Institute will hold a 30-minute afternoon webinar, “Demand for Skilled Labor,” that takes a look at why it’s so hard to find employees for positions in renewable energy and sustainable industries. Other questions the webinar will address include:

* What’s currently missing in the hiring pool for the renewable energy and sustainable industry?

* What is skilled labor?

* What soft skills are needed for these green energy jobs?

* What training and hard skills are needed?

Sue Pawlak, Ecotech Institute’s Area Director of Career Placement, will host the event. The webinar will be broken up into two parts: a 20-minute presentation, followed by a 10-minute question-and-answer session.

“When I meet with hiring managers I often hear that they need employees who have very specific training in wind and solar energy, who know the equipment inside and out and they want people who have had hands-on experience,” said Pawlak. “If employers don’t have to spend a ton of time on green energy training, they’d definitely prefer not to and that’s where applicants with skilled labor can really shine.”

Webinar Topic: “Demand for Skilled Labor in Renewable Energy”

Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Time: 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. Eastern/2:30 to 3:00 p.m. Central/1:30 to 2:00 p.m. Mountain/12:30 to 1:00 p.m. Pacific

Moderator: Sue Pawlak, Ecotech Institute’s Area Director of Career Placement

Register: Seats are limited. Register at www.ecotechinstitute.com/landings/webinar/.

Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colo., is the first and only school in the U.S. solely focused on renewable energy training. It offers eight associate’s degree programs:

* Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Facility Management Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Electrical Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Energy Efficiency, Associate of Applied Science

* Power Utility Technician, Associate of Applied Science

* Business Administration – Sustainability, Associate of Applied Science.

For more information on Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com. You can also follow Ecotech Institute through its Facebook page at facebook.com/EcotechInstitute and Twitter at twitter.com/Ecotech_Inst.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
CSG|PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com