The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon is expanding to include two new workforce development programs, says U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. The newly announced programs, Solar Decathlon Professionals (SD Pro) and Solar Decathlon Pathways (SD Pathways), seek to provide expertise from successful competition alumni as well as introduce students and young professionals to the latest sustainable building software platforms, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) reports.
SD Pro is geared toward industry professionals looking to integrate updated zero energy building techniques into their work, while SD Pathways introduces students to career opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
“The Solar Decathlon is really a springboard to careers in clean energy,” said Secretary Granholm at the Solar Decathlon 2022 Competition Event, “but we need to grow the ranks of big thinkers with bold ideas for new buildings that are energy efficient, affordable, and designed with our communities in mind. That’s why we’re partnering with the American Institute of Architects to launch the new Solar Decathlon Professionals Program, which is aimed at imparting practical experience with zero energy building design to professional architects and engineers.”
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