Tag Archives: Ecotech Institute

Education

Clean Jobs Index Lists More Than 103,000 U.S. Jobs that Correlate with Ecotech Institute’s programs

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Ecotech Continues to Grow as Leading School for Careers in Sustainability with more than 120 Graduates and 520 Students

Denver, Colorado, March 04, 2013 – Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on jobs training in sustainability, is nearing its three-year anniversary, celebrating a growing student body and an incredible network of alumni. Ecotech Institute educates the future cleantech workforce, so it’s continuously monitoring the changing job landscape to see where its graduates will fit. Data from the recently launched “Clean Jobs Index” shows 103,016 job postings from across the country in January alone that Ecotech Institute graduates could fulfill.

Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colorado, now has more than 520 students who came to Ecotech from across the country for hands-on training in the growing field of sustainability. Since its inception in a temporary facility in April 2010, Ecotech Institute has moved into a new facility, introduced more programs, held three graduations and continues to rapidly expand.

Ecotech Institute held its first graduation in June 2012 and has since graduated two more classes, sending many talented people into the workforce. Career placement has been extremely successful with alumni working in 10 states at employers such as NextEra, M-I SWACO, Tradesmen International and Gamesa. The next graduation is April 5, where 44 more students will graduate, and the next start date for classes is April 8.

“Our continuous growth and alumni success illustrate a positive connection between our hand-picked programs, focus on relevant curriculum and in-demand jobs that require specific training and knowledge,” says Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “We are proud to celebrate nearly three years of hard work and commitment to truly understanding what our students and potential employers demand.”

To better understand the clean jobs landscape, Ecotech Institute initiated and produced the “Clean Jobs Index,” which breaks down clean jobs by state and offers links to local jobs listings. Using a wide variety of resources, Ecotech Institute will update the sustainability factors of the Index data on a quarterly and annual basis (depending on when new data is released) and job data will be updated monthly as new jobs are posted. Ecotech Institute uses jobs data from Burning Glass International, whose patented job aggregation technology searches for job listings from more than 17,000 sources.

Ecotech Institute currently offers the following degree programs:

* 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

* Power Utility Technician, Associate of Applied Science

* Business Administration – Sustainability, Associate of Applied Science

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com. To learn more about the Clean Jobs Index, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com/cleanjobsindex/.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
303.433.7020 (o) or 720.244.4268 (c)
jfoust@csg-pr.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. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers six 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
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Business

Ecotech Institute Debuts First-of-its-Kind “Clean Jobs Index”

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National Index shows where to find clean jobs and compares state sustainability initiatives

Denver, Colorado, January 23, 2013 — After nearly a year of research, Ecotech Institute today revealed the first-ever “Clean Jobs Index”, which aggregates all the available clean jobs in the U.S. The Index found that there were more than three million clean jobs available across the United States (3,014,785) in 2012. The Index breaks down clean jobs by state, with links to local jobs listings. In addition to providing objective information on jobs, the Index also looks at a variety of sustainability factors that affect citizens’ lifestyles, including alternative fueling stations, LEED projects, total energy consumption, energy efficiency, green pricing, net metering and state incentives.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on training students for renewable energy jobs, initiated and produced the Clean Jobs Index using a wide variety of external resources. Ecotech will update the sustainability factors of the Index data on a quarterly and annual basis (depending on when new data is released) and monthly as new jobs are posted for hiring.

To determine what jobs are deemed clean jobs, Ecotech used the “green jobs” definition from the U.S. Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which states that green jobs are either: (1) Jobs in businesses that produce goods or provide services that benefit the environment or conserve natural resources, or (2) jobs in which workers’ duties involve making their establishment’s production processes more environmentally friendly or use fewer natural resources (http://www.bls.gov/green/). Ecotech then took this definition and used data from Burning Glass International, whose patented job aggregation technology searches for job listings from more than 17,000 sources, to create the Clean Jobs Index list of available positions.

“The Clean Jobs Index addresses the prevalence of clean jobs and takes a unique ranking approach to hot topics in the world of sustainability,” says Colin Coyne, Managing Principal, The Coyne Group and LEED 2.0 Accredited Professional. “This tool is able to aggregate important factors that affect job potential, businesses, livability, politics and much more by using a methodology that is 100 percent objective and an interface that is clean, concise and practical.”

Highlights from the Clean Jobs Index as of January 15, 2013 include:

Number of Clean Jobs in the U.S.: 3,014,785

Oregon is the number one state for the entire Clean Jobs Index, taking all factors into account. (See how other states rank at www.ecotechinstitute.com/cleanjobsindex).

Alaska is number one for clean jobs per 100,000 residents.

Idaho generates the highest percentage of energy by renewables at 85 percent.

Minnesota is number one for renewable energy and efficiency state incentives.

California ranks lowest in energy usage per 100,000 residents.

Massachusetts ranks highest for energy efficiency.

Maryland has the highest number of LEED projects per capita.

Hawaii has the highest number of customers on net metering energy per capita.

Ecotech Institute gathered data from a variety of independent research entities that develop and regularly publish cleantech information. Sources include a variety of government agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses, including: U.S. Energy Information Administration, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Green Building Council, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy and Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency.

“We are very proud to introduce the Clean Jobs Index to the world. Its aggregate data offers incredible insight into how each state is performing in areas of tremendous importance,” says Kyle Crider, Ecotech Institute’s director of sustainability. “The possibilities for the Index’s use are infinite. We recommend that state leaders reference the data when policy is initiated, when companies are looking to build or improve operations, and especially when people are looking for jobs.”

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

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
303.433.7020 (o) or 720.244.4268 (c)
jfoust@csg-pr.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. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers six 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

Education

Ecotech Institute Case Studies Included in National Wildlife Federation’s Campus Ecology Program

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Comprehensive Online Database Outlines How Campuses Showcase Sustainability

Denver, Colorado, December 20, 2012 – The National Wildlife Federation’s (NWF’s) Campus Ecology program recently released 112 new case studies featuring the best green projects of 2012. These innovative efforts, from renewable energy systems to campus organic farms, can now be seen in a single online resource from NWF. The comprehensive database of case studies outlines how colleges and universities around the country, including Ecotech Institute, are making a substantial investment in the sustainability of their campuses, communities and curriculum. Ecotech Institute now has three sustainability case studies included in NWF Campus Ecology’s resources.

The NWF Campus Ecology sustainability case study database, the only resource of its kind, is available online now at thanks in part to the support of The Kendeda Fund. More than one hundred new case studies highlight efforts to dramatically reduce pollution, waste, and costs, including recycling, energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy installations and green jobs training programs.

Published each year since 1989, NWF’s Campus Ecology sustainability case study database has become an indispensable resource for students, faculty, administrators, community leaders and others interested in the role of colleges and universities in protecting the health of our planet. The database is searchable by topic, year, school, and state and includes information on each institution’s project goals, successes, challenges, funding strategies and project leaders.

“This resource helps colleges and universities learn how campuses are tackling their energy and water consumption challenges, and about their strategies to protect and restore green space. The database also gives campuses an opportunity to share their successes nationwide while receiving recognition for their commitment and hard work,” says Kristy Jones, Sr. Manager of Campus Ecology Programs, National Wildlife Federation.

NWF’s Campus Ecology program works with several hundred campuses nationwide each year on efforts to advance student leadership, reduce carbon pollution and support career education.

Since its inception in 1989, National Wildlife Federation’s Campus Ecology program has gained respect as a national leader in campus sustainability and the climate action movement. The program has long recognized the opportunities for higher education to lead society to a clean, just, and economically sound energy future. By providing tools, training and expertise, NWF has empowered students and inspired conservation stewardship on hundreds of campuses nationwide. Schools wanting to learn more about NWF’s Campus Ecology program can go to www.CampusEcology.org.

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 six 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:
Alicia Hassinger
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
720-933-8119
ahassinger@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Technology

Ecotech Institute Shares Top Five Cleantech Considerations For Election Time

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Regardless of Party Affiliation, Elections Affect the Future of Cleantech

Denver, Colorado, October 29, 2012 – Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean energy, has put together five things to consider this political season. Regardless of your political affiliation or views on the environment and energy, being informed is the key.

“We strongly encourage our students to educate themselves in every way possible about how policy affects cleantech industries,” says Michael Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “Regardless of political affiliation, one thing remains consistent – every vote has implications; everyone must educate themselves about who and what to support.”

Ecotech Institute recommends the following five things to consider over the next few weeks:

1. Read sources that outline candidate’s stance on cleantech issues. While different media take different views on politicians’ positions, take the time to listen or read each candidate’s beliefs and plans. Go to the candidate’s website and seek out third-party sources, such as Science Debate, which weighs science-related responses.

2. Fact-check everything a candidate says. While it may be difficult to find politically neutral sources, fact-checking websites do exist.

3. Practice “big picture” thinking. When politicians discuss their beliefs, policies and practices, apply your knowledge of history, science, philosophy, anthropology and more to understand the implications of what they are saying. In addition, what are they saying they will do that will truly impact our planet? Here is a related blog post aptly named, “What is Crucial?”

4. Don’t ignore the connection between a “green state of mind” and politics. Policy affects innovation, job creation, funding sources and more – many of which fuel the cleantech sector. Understand the connection so you can better deduce the implications of each vote. Here is an Ecotech blog post on the politics of the environment.

5. Take a look at pending legislation and read about its impact. While there are a variety of state and national bills to watch, many organizations like the Colorado Cleantech Industry Association outline public policy issues to watch.

“The future of the cleantech industries relies on politicians, businesses and voters to come together and align on what will make a positive difference for our communities and planet,” said Kyle Crider, Ecotech Institute’s director of sustainability. “Education is important in every election and that time is now.”

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 six 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:
Alicia Hassinger
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
720-933-8119
ahassinger@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Technology

Ecotech Institute Honors its Second Graduating Class Today

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New Class of Graduates are Prepared to Enter the Green Jobs Workforce

Denver, CO, September 24, 2012 – Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and sustainability, will hold its second-ever graduation today, Monday, September 24, 2012 at The Summit Conference and Event Center in Aurora, CO. Forty-four graduates, including six military veterans, will cross the stage. They will receive associate’s degrees in Wind Energy Technology, Solar Energy Technology, Renewable Energy Technology and Electrical Engineering Technology.

This group of graduates, in addition to the first graduating class, makes up the students who began coursework in a temporary facility before Ecotech’s campus was completed.

“We take pride in our visionary students, the people who believed in Ecotech before we had elaborate lab equipment and a LEED-certified campus,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “These students shared our vision and will soon receive their diploma, arming them for success in the vast world of green jobs.”

Ecotech hosted its first graduation on June 20, 2012 and approximately 90 percent of graduates are now working in cleantech positions around the country, including Hawaii.

All Ecotech 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 serve as academic and business leaders in cleantech industries, helped design the school’s practical curriculum.

“It feels good knowing that I now have an advantage above others who are also pursuing this career, but who don’t have the technical training I received at Ecotech,” said Joe Kellogg, who is graduating with a degree in Solar Energy Technology. “I absorbed an abundant knowledge in each class from the best instructors and have the tools to be successful.”

The September 2012 graduating class is made up of students from 10 states and Mexico. Listed below are their hometowns, names and degree programs:

Alabama
Jackson’s Gap
• Jason Chesnutt, Wind Energy Technology

Colorado
Aurora
• Tumu Johnson, Electrical Engineering Technology
• David Shannon, Electrical Engineering Technology
• Clint Turner, Wind Energy Technology
• Mark Westrate, Solar Energy Technology

Boulder
• Nicholas Dotter, Electrical Engineering Technology

Broomfield
• Joshua Schaefer, Solar Energy Technology

Colorado Springs
• Deiyung Downey, Wind Energy Technology
• Matthew Morin, Solar Energy Technology

Denver
• Steve Appling, Wind Energy Technology
• Jacob Bratsky, Electrical Engineering Technology
• Chris Horn, Wind Energy Technology
• Thanos Hunt, Renewable Energy Technology
• Joe Kellogg, Solar Energy Technology
• Alejandro Mesa, Electrical Engineering Technology
• Brett Oakes, Renewable Energy Technology
• Esteban Orl, Wind Energy Technology
• Ty Simpson, Renewable Energy Technology
• Joshua Stoppel, Solar Energy Technology
• Josh Yaeger, Electrical Engineering Technology

Divide
• Matt Vetis, Solar Energy Technology

Henderson
• Gil Negron, Solar Energy Technology

Littleton
• Edward Buess, Wind Energy Technology
• Kent Mortensen, Wind Energy Technology

Morrison
• Sean Johnston, Renewable Energy Technology

Nederland
• Nathan Baumhover, Renewable Energy Technology

Northglenn
• Zac Sturgill, Wind Energy Technology

Parker
• Robert Parker, Wind Energy Technology

Connecticut
Salem
• Michael Scace, Solar Energy Technology

Kansas
Minneola
• Darlene Redden, Solar Energy Technology

Norton
• Timothy Millan, Wind Energy Technology

Oakley
• Terry Farmer, Solar Energy Technology

Mexico
Berwick
• Louis Sanfacon, Electrical Engineering Technology

Zacatecas
• Jose Calderon-Ibanez, Electrical Engineering Technology

Michigan
Battle Creek
• Les Crosby, Wind Energy Technology

Muskegon
• Jordan Veltman, Electrical Engineering

Missouri
St. Louis
• Josh Crambert, Wind Energy Technology

New York
Jamestown
• Richard Chase II, Solar Energy Technology

New York City
• Fatih Erogla, Solar Energy Technology

Oregon
Aumsville
• Michael Streight, Wind Energy Technology

Pennsylvania
Canonsburg
• Kevin King, Electrical Engineering

Texas
Corpus Christi
• Shawn Sanders, Wind Energy Technology

Dallas
• Brandon Huckaby, Wind Energy Technology

Contact:
Alicia Hassinger or Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
303.433.7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com or jfoust@csg-pr.com

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is 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 six 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:
Alicia Hassinger
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Education

Zhanna Stavina Joins Ecotech Institute as Director of Admissions

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Stavina Brings Experience and Enthusiasm to Executive Team

Denver, Colorado, September 10, 2012 – 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.

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. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, the college offers five associate’s degrees designed by experts in the industry for people seeking careers in the emerging cleantech economy. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

About Education Corporation of America:
Education Corporation of America is a leader in the post-secondary career school market with current enrollment of almost 20,000 students. In addition to Ecotech Institute, ECA schools include Virginia College, founded in 1983, a private institution of higher education that offers non-degree and associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of Health and Medical, Business, Information Technology, Interior Design, Computer Design, Cosmetology, Nursing and more in 25 different cities in the following states: Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. Virginia College also offers classes online and operates Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College.  ECA also operates Golf Academy of America, with locations in Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; Orlando, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

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

Technology

Ecotech Institute’s First Graduating Class Finds Success in the Workforce

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Companies Across the Country Are Hiring Graduates from Ecotech’s First-Ever Graduating Class

Denver, CO, August 01, 2012 – 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 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, 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 energy employers. Ecotech’s second commencement will be in September.

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 being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

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. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, the college offers five associate’s degrees designed by experts in the industry for people seeking careers in the emerging cleantech economy. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com.

Contact:
Alicia Hassinger or Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group, on behalf of Ecotech Institute
303.433.7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com or jfoust@csg-pr.com

About Education Corporation of America:
Education Corporation of America is a leader in the post-secondary career school market with current enrollment of almost 20,000 students.  The ECA website is ecacolleges.com.  In addition to Ecotech Institute, ECA schools include Virginia College, founded in 1983, a private institution of higher education that offers non-degree and associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of Health and Medical, Business, Information Technology, Interior Design, Computer Design, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Nursing and more in eighteen different cities.  Virginia College campuses are located in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville and Pensacola, Florida; Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah, Georgia; Biloxi and Jackson, Mississippi; Charleston, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Greenville, South Carolina; Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Richmond, Virginia; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Austin, Texas. The Virginia College website is vc.edu.  Virginia College also offers classes worldwide via the Internet, with student services and admissions facilities in Birmingham, Alabama, and Tampa, Florida, and a Military Student Center also in Tampa.  Information about online classes at Virginia College is available at vconline.edu.  Additionally, ECA operates Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, with locations in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama; Richmond, Virginia; Savannah, Georgia; and Jacksonville, Florida.  The website is culinard.com.  ECA also operates Golf Academy of America, with locations in Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; Orlando, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  The Golf Academy website is golfacademy.edu.

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

Technology

Ecotech Institute’s First-Ever Graduating Class Takes the Stage June 21

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Forty-two Graduates to Receive Degrees Focused on Clean Technology and Sustainability

Denver, CO, June 14, 2012 – 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.

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. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, the college offers five associate’s degrees designed by experts in the industry for people seeking careers in the emerging cleantech economy. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com.

Contact:
Alicia Hassinger or Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
303.433.7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com or jfoust@csg-pr.com

About Education Corporation of America
Education Corporation of America is a leader in the post-secondary career school market with current enrollment of almost 20,000 students.  The ECA website is ecacolleges.com.  In addition to Ecotech Institute, ECA schools include Virginia College, founded in 1983, a private institution of higher education that offers non-degree and associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of Health and Medical, Business, Information Technology, Interior Design, Computer Design, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Nursing and more in eighteen different cities.  Virginia College campuses are located in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville and Pensacola, Florida; Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah, Georgia; Biloxi and Jackson, Mississippi; Charleston, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Greenville, South Carolina; Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Richmond, Virginia; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Austin, Texas. The Virginia College website is vc.edu.  Virginia College also offers classes worldwide via the Internet, with student services and admissions facilities in Birmingham, Alabama, and Tampa, Florida, and a Military Student Center also in Tampa.  Information about online classes at Virginia College is available at vconline.edu.  Additionally, ECA operates Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, with locations in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama; Richmond, Virginia; Savannah, Georgia; and Jacksonville, Florida.  The website is culinard.com.  ECA also operates Golf Academy of America, with locations in Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; Orlando, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  The Golf Academy website is golfacademy.edu.

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

Business

Ecotech Institute Increases Veterans’ Resources, Including Partnership with Veterans Green Jobs

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With Veteran Population on the Rise, Ecotech Seeks to Understand the Educational and Emotional Needs of Military Students

Denver, CO, May 08, 2012 – Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability, today announced that it has formed a relationship with Colorado-based Veterans Green Jobs, whose mission is to engage, transition and connect military veterans with meaningful employment opportunities. About 15 percent of Ecotech’s current student population is made up of military veterans.

Together, Ecotech and Veterans Green Jobs will focus on encouraging and enhancing opportunities for military veterans by promoting career opportunities in the green jobs sector, both in Colorado and nationally.

“Our military population has already been through so much and we want to make sure we’re providing the support they need to excel in school and go on to have productive careers,” said Michael Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “Veterans Green Jobs has a similar focus, believing that the right jobs can make all the difference in helping our military veterans enjoy a successful life after service.”

As part of its commitment to military students, Ecotech recently hosted a seminar on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), taught by the Denver Department of Veterans Affairs. Ecotech administration, program directors and instructors attended the session to better understand what many student veterans are going through. According to “Help my PTSD,” one in every five military personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan has PTSD and in the past year the number of diagnosed cases in the military has jumped 50 percent.

At Ecotech, 67 students are either military veterans or currently serving in the military. Of those, three will graduate on June 21, 2012. One of those students is Monica Soto, who will graduate in June with a degree in Wind Energy Technology. Monica spent more than eight years in the Navy as an aircraft mechanic, but after 9/11 she left the Navy to be closer to her son and build a career where she could raise him in one place. After trying some other career paths, she found Ecotech when seeking an opportunity that would capitalize on her training and previous associate’s degree, and also build a bridge between her time in the military and her life as a civilian.

“As a single mom and 100 percent disabled vet, I didn’t know where to find my place in the civilian community and Ecotech met my needs in a variety of ways,” said Soto. “I knew my purpose in the Navy and felt lost after I left; I now feel a purpose again. I’m excited about putting my skills to work to better my own family and our environment.”

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 renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative cleantech employers.

Learn more about Ecotech Institute, or call 877-326-5576. The next round of classes begins in late June and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

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.  Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, the college offers five associate’s degrees designed by experts in the industry for people seeking careers in the emerging cleantech economy. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Education Corporation of America
Education Corporation of America is a leader in the post-secondary career school market with current enrollment of almost 20,000 students.  The ECA website is www.ecacolleges.com.  In addition to Ecotech Institute, ECA schools include Virginia College, founded in 1983, a private institution of higher education that offers non-degree and associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of Health and Medical, Business, Information Technology, Interior Design, Computer Design, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Nursing and more in eighteen different cities.  Virginia College campuses are located in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville and Pensacola, Florida; Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah, Georgia; Biloxi and Jackson, Mississippi; Charleston, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Greenville, South Carolina; Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Richmond, Virginia; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Austin, Texas. The Virginia College website is www.vc.edu.  Virginia College also offers classes worldwide via the Internet, with student services and admissions facilities in Birmingham, Alabama, and Tampa, Florida, and a Military Student Center also in Tampa.  Information about online classes at Virginia College is available at www.vconline.edu.  Additionally, ECA operates Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, with locations in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama; Richmond, Virginia; Savannah, Georgia; and Jacksonville, Florida.  The website is www.culinard.com.  ECA also operates Golf Academy of America, with locations in Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; Orlando, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  The Golf Academy website is golfacademy.edu.

Contact:
Alicia Hassinger or Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com or jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Education

Recent Hires Complete Ecotech Institute’s Student Services Department, Creating a Welcoming Environment for all Students

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Career Services, Student Liaisons and Mentorship Programs Foster a Positive Student Experience

Denver, Colorado, December 05, 2011 – Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, today announced a growing suite of services focused on student life and success. With students coming from all walks of life across the country, Ecotech’s administration is committed to extending assistance beyond the classroom. Ecotech’s Student Services department, Career Services department and mentorship program all serve as examples of the school’s focus on fostering an engaging, well rounded experience.

As part of that initiative, Ecotech recently named Kim Stromire as Manager of Student Services. Kim and her team help students in all aspects of settling in, from the enrollment and orientation process to relocation plans for out-of-state students. Under her direction, Ecotech provides students with local and community resources, including housing information, part-time job opportunities and more. In addition, Student Services implements student activities and clubs; supervises the Military Strategy Committee and the Political Action Committee; provides campus communication tools; and offers tutoring assistance and advisement.

Under the Student Services umbrella, Ecotech also offers a unique mentorship program for students. The program, MORE (Mentoring Others Results in Excellence), is open to all first-term Ecotech students to help them acclimate into a new school – and, for many, a new city. Since more experienced students have expertise and knowledge about Ecotech, course material and the Denver Metro area, students are matched up to get the “inside scoop.”

During students’ tenure at Ecotech, they will also become acquainted with Susan Pawlak, who Ecotech recently named as its Director of Career Services. Susan is committed to matching students with renewable energy careers that fit their skills and personal assets. She is well connected with sustainable companies nationally and locally and ensures that Ecotech students are in front of hiring managers in their respective fields.

“A school is just a building without its students. We are focused on producing graduates who are fulfilled from an educational experience that meet all of their needs,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “We have built a team that truly cares about every person in our diverse student body.”

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 will have its first graduating class in June 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.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit us online or call us at 1-877-326-5576. The next round of classes begins in January 2012 and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

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. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, the college offers seven associate’s degrees and a certificate program designed by experts in the industry for people seeking careers in the emerging cleantech economy. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Education Corporation of America
Education Corporation of America is a leader in the post-secondary career school market with current enrollment of nearly 19,000 students. The ECA website is www.ecacolleges.com. In addition to Ecotech Institute, ECA schools include Virginia College, founded in 1983, a private institution of higher education that offers non-degree and associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of Health and Medical, Business, Information Technology, Interior Design, Computer Design, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Nursing and more in twenty different cities. Virginia College campuses are located in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville and Pensacola, Florida; Augusta, Macon, Columbus and Savannah, Georgia; Biloxi and Jackson, Mississippi; Charleston, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Greenville, South Carolina; Chattanooga, Tennessee; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Richmond, Virginia; and Austin, Texas. The Virginia College website is www.vc.edu. Virginia College also offers classes worldwide via the Internet, with student services and admissions facilities in Birmingham, Alabama, and Tampa, Florida. Information about online classes at Virginia College is available at www.vconline.edu. Additionally, ECA operates Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, with locations in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama; Richmond, Virginia; and Jacksonville, Florida. The website is www.culinard.com. ECA also operates Golf Academy of America, with locations in Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Orlando, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Golf Academy website is www.golfacademy.edu.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
CSG|PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.ecotechinstitute.com