The Green Technology class here at the Tennessee Technology Center at McKenzie has just earned the certification as one of the nation’s first Green Academy’s through ETA (Electronics Technicians Association). The designation comes after many hours of hard work put in by students and their instructor Bruce Moore.
Just launched, ETA International’s Green Academy will be a collaborative effort for both schools that are approved to utilize ETA alternative energy certifications and industry partners who offer training or are looking to hire students.
“We hear from schools each day who are entering the alternative energy market and including their local industry. This recognition, ‘Green Academy’ shows which schools have completed the full circle - students, training, certification and jobs,” said ETA International President, Teresa Maher
It is important for students to receive hands-on training and what better way to do that than by creating partnerships with local businesses. Students are able to receive the necessary hands-on training through internships and also receive ETA certification.
Schools and facilities who wish to become part of ETA’s Green Academy must have at least one training program approved by ETA to teach a Level One certification in one of the ETA Alternative Energy disciplines (photovoltaic, small and commercial wind, micro hydro, fuel cells, solar thermal, geothermal, Stirling technology or solar concentration). The school must also have an agreement with an employer to provide part or all of its students with either an internship or an externship. For a specific list of qualifications please visit, www.certifymegreen.org.
"The Green Academy program will help to bridge the gap between course completion and employment, said Ray Stroud, ETA Alternative Energy project manager. “A person who has just completed the Green Academy program will have a level of/ confidence during a job interview that comes with real world contact training and experiences."
