Free “green” jobs training is available for students interested in enrolling in environmental energy technology and environmental science letter of recognition and certificate of proficiency program options that are being offered at Wor-Wic Community College.
“In addition to free tuition, funding also covers fees and books,” said Dr. Trevor H. Jones, dean of occupational education at Wor-Wic. “The grant continues through the fall of 2012, but interested students shouldn’t delay because the funding could run out sooner, depending on how many people apply.”
Classes covered by the grant are being offered this summer and fall at Wor-Wic. Registrations are currently being accepted for the college’s summer session that begins May 16 and the fall semester that begins Sept. 7.
“Maryland residents, whether currently employed, looking for entry-level employment, or simply updating job skills in conservation, construction, electrical, environmental science, manufacturing, renewable energy or surveying careers, can benefit from the letter or certificate option that Wor-Wic offers,” Jones added. “Furthermore, many businesses now require employees to have expertise in environmental issues. The funds are available for incumbent workers who need to update their skills.”
The environmental energy technology letter of recognition consists of three introductory courses that cover solar and renewable energy, as well as residential and commercial construction.
The environmental energy technology certificate of proficiency consists of 10 courses that provide an introduction to wind turbine technology, geographic information systems (GIS), and solar and renewable energy, as well as construction, manufacturing and electricity.
The environmental science letter of recognition consists of three introductory courses that cover physical and biological sciences, ecological concerns and GIS.
“Although the free tuition, fees and books only apply to the environmental energy technology and environmental science letter and certificate options, Wor-Wic welcomes and encourages students to continue taking classes beyond these programs to earn an associate degree,” Jones said.
Funding for the free training comes from a Maryland Energy Sector Partnership (MESP) grant that is being overseen by the Chesapeake Area Consortium for Higher Education (CACHE) Institute for Environmental Careers. In addition to Wor-Wic, the CACHE partnership includes Anne Arundel Community College, Chesapeake College and the College of Southern Maryland.
For more information about enrolling tuition-free in “green” jobs training at Wor-Wic, call Dr. Jones at (410) 334-2829 or Wor-Wic’s career services office at (410) 334-2903.