Background…
Now, more than ever, energy independence is a national goal. To achieve that goal will require us to change the way we think about how we use energy. First and foremost, we know we must use the energy we already have as efficiently as possible. We must improve current manufacturing and construction processes as well as develop new technologies to harness alternative energy sources. To help industry achieve this goal, the U.S. Government has budgeted funds to:
- assist in the development of these new green technologies;
- provide the necessary worker training; and
- offer financial assistance for retraining current, dislocated, and unemployed workers.
The Shenandoah Valley Energy Training Grant Partnership, of which Lord Fairfax Community College is a member, received a $5 million grant to develop instructional programs designed to help our workforce acquire new skills in sustainable construction, manufacturing, building design and renewable energy industries. Scholarships and grants may be available to those who need financial assistance and meet the necessary qualifications.
Beginning in the Fall of 2010, LFCC's Office of Workforce Solutions will start offering a variety of non-credit green classes. These classes will help students prepare for new and emerging jobs in green technologies with certifications in the following areas:
- Advanced Green Manufacturing
- Green Construction-Related Credentialing
- Sustainability and Green Building CSC, AAS
- Commercial and Residential Assessment
- Construction and Manufacturing Apprenticeships
- Solar / Photovoltaic Installer
Classes will help prepare participants for certifications, licensures, and/or degrees as well as assist those in Apprenticeship programs.
Certifications and Classes
Some of the programs offered through LFCC's Workforce Solutions program include: (Click on the class hyperlink to learn more about the class and register)
Building Design Certifications
- Credentials through Leadership in Engineering and Environment Design (LEED) Green Associate training course. …Beginning Fall 2010
- LEED Green Associate Preparation and Exam
Sustainability and Green Construction Certifications
- Credentials through Building Performance Institute (BPI) and Green Advantage. …Beginning Fall 2010
- Greenbuild Basics Green Advantage® Prep and Exam
Weatherization and Home Energy Auditing Certification
- Credentials through Building Performance Institute (BPI). …Beginning Fall 2010
- BPI Building Analyst
- BPI Envelope Specialist
- BPI Heating Specialist
HVAC Certifications
- Credentials and CFC reclaiming practices through the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). …Beginning Fall 2010
- Chloro-Flouro-Carbon (CFC) Prep and Certification Exam
- BPI Heating Specialist
Photovoltaic Installation and Solar Thermal Industry Certifications
- Certifications through the Northern American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP)
- Classes coming late spring 2011. Watch for further details and scheduling.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are available for many of these programs! See information listed below to get started.
If Unemployed…
- Contact your local Workforce One-Stop Center located in either Winchester (540)722-3415 or Luray (540) 743-4320. All unemployed must apply for financial assistance through the Workforce One-Stop Centers.
If Employed…
- If you are employed in the Industry and seeking to expand your skills or currently serving as an Apprenticeship Contact LFCC Workforce Solutions (540) 868-7021. Qualified applicants may apply for scholarships. Click on the links below to obtain an application for assistance. Complete the application and bring to the Workforce Solutions Office.
- Energy Grant Information Packet
- Energy Grant Scholarship Application Packet
Sign-up and start saving today!
