Energy Smart promotes energy efficiency auditing career

Recently, Energy Smart led middle and high school students on an energy efficiency audit of Sabathani Community Center in south Minneapolis. The energy efficiency field is expected to be very busy in the next decade. All building efficiency jobs, such as solar panel installer, insulation installer, energy efficiency auditor and many more will be in high demand. Energy Smart wanted to introduce students to the career of energy efficiency auditor.

The City of Minneapolis opened their new Green Career Exploration Program community engagement and training space. This new space in Sabathani Community Center will be used for green career exploration and education. 

The career event was the inaugural program in this great space! Fifteen students from Migizi and Indigenous Peoples Task Force explored the major mechanical systems of the building with the guidance of the Energy Smart team. Students learned about the importance of efficiency and what changes could be made to improve energy efficiency in the large building. Many students were familiar with the concept of turning off the lights when they leave a room, but now they have a greater understanding of what behaviors and technology make it possible to decrease energy usage even more. 

The job of an auditor features daily variety as auditors meet with a wide range of businesses and their owners. Auditors are continually learning and adapting as every building and business is different and technology continues to improve. Energy Smart staff also appreciate that the job is both out in the field studying buildings and spent at a desk writing recommendation reports. 

If this sounds like a career you are interested in, here are some resources:

• Center for Energy and Environment offers a paid five-week training program to get people started in energy efficiency. Learn more and apply here
• Renewable Energy Partners and Northgate Development offer free training with opportunities for paid on-the-job learning at the Regional Apprenticeship Training Center in North Minneapolis. Learn more and apply here
• Informational interview and job shadowing with Energy Smart. Get answers for your questions and try out being an energy efficiency auditor with the Energy Smart team. Email the Program Manager, Patrick Deal, at pdeal@mnchamber.com

Thanks to the City of Minneapolis, Sabathani Community Center, Migizi, Indigeous Peoples Task Force and Center for Energy and Environment for your help and cooperation in making this event happen.