SEATTLE – People interested in learning more about green jobs in construction and carpentry have a new resource.
Starting this month, the Workforce Development Council of Seattle and King County will offer free training for green jobs in these fields. The program is for people who don't have a job and are looking for one in construction.
Seattle Vocational Institute will be one of the sites for some hands-on training specifically in green construction and green manufacturing plus energy efficiency.
"Whether it has to do with insulating windows, caulking to keep heat in, water conservation, whether it has to do with solar, that's always only going to give them that advantage over someone that doesn't have that training," said Steve Woods, an instructor at Seattle Vocational Institute.
"I think it's important to learn that. It's something good to have under your belt as a skill," said Clyde Lawhorn, an apprentice at Seattle Vocational Institute.
Most importantly, after finishing the program, students will receive green certifications recognized by employers which can help to jump start their careers. Instructors say this type of green training is a big deal because more than half of the green jobs in Washington are projected to be in construction.
"There are more contractors recognizing the green industry. If they can any kind of training in green building, it's going to be an asset for them," said Woods.
If you're interested, there are some requirements. People must be unemployed, 18 years or older with low or no income. The different courses range from a couple weeks to three months. For the first one, people need to apply and try out on Saturday June 11 at Seattle Vocational Institute.
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