New Guidebook Shows Texas Green Job Opportunities

Contact: Kate Robertson, Energy Efficiency Specialist, National Energy Program (512) 691-3423
Chris Smith, Texas Communications Director, (512) 691-3451 or [email protected]

AUSTIN, Texas (January 29, 2010) - Texas job seekers, students and policymakers have a new reference tool for seizing opportunities available in a burgeoning new economy with today’s release of the “Texas Green Jobs Guidebook” published by Environmental Defense Fund.

With support from the Meadows Foundation and review by the Texas Workforce Commission, the EDF publication profiles more than 200 types of green jobs, gives information on job training and placement programs, and provides city-specific overviews of workforce websites and community college program listings.

“Green jobs are where the action is, right now and into the foreseeable future,” said Kate Robertson, energy efficiency specialist with EDF’s National Energy Program. “The engine of future economic growth runs on clean technology and those who seek new training will reap the rewards.”

Robertson added that many jobs in existence today become green jobs when coupled with an additional layer of training, which need not take years. In many cases, an associate’s degree, continuing education or certification program provides the skills necessary to compete in this new workforce.

“Texas leads the nation in providing our workforce with outstanding renewable energy training opportunities,” said Texas Workforce Commission Executive Director Larry Temple. “The Green Jobs Guidebook will be a great resource for those interested in pursuing careers in the renewable energy field.”

For those with a high school diploma or GED, the Guidebook identifies numerous employment types, many exceeding $20 and $30 per hour. For those with a 2-year degree or who have taken part in an apprenticeship or trade school program, the Guidebook profiles additional job types, many paying even more.

EDF will be distributing the guidebook via email to all Texas high school guidance counselors, giving hard copies to counselors who request them. Others can download the Guidebook for free at: www.edf.org/txgreenjobs.