Sustainable Practices Make Business Sense

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College -  

In addition to supporting business growth, the training can help businesses prepare for technical and regulatory changes, she said.

"Federal and state standards for pollution and efficiency already affect most Wisconsin industries," she said. "Community and voluntary standards raise the bar even higher. Over time, industries that don't have the expertise to adapt to new standards or adopt new technology will face increasing hardship. We want Northeast Wisconsin to have the expertise in place to meet each new challenge and to continue growing in new markets."

The first Renewable classes started in June (in a gas-saving online format) and the first three certificates are being offered in 2008-2009. Previous offerings in biodiesel - the conversion of plant materials to diesel fuel - have already attracted 200 participants to Green Bay and Door County seminars, demonstrating that Northeast Wisconsin is ready and willing to move into these new fields.

Growing Expertise for a Growing Market

NWTC expects a growing need for education in renewable energy and sustainable practices based on a variety of trends.

- Traditional industries are searching for new efficiencies
- Global interest in increased efficiency and sustainability offers new business opportunities
- Area residents want to preserve and enjoy Northeast Wisconsin's natural environment
- Proposed federal legislation could increase employers' need for expertise in new, more efficient technologies

Sandra Duckett, vice-president for College Advancement, said recently, "In order for Northeast Wisconsin to grow economically and our constituents to improve their quality of life, we need to invest in areas that will create the greatest return on our investment. Preparing our workforce for thenew energy and efficiency revolution does that."