Alternative energy class sparks green interest

By Steve Koehler

If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to become more “green” when it comes to alternative energy sources, Ozarks Technical Community College’s Center for Workforce Development has a course for you.

The Center will offer a class June 30 through July 14 examining the various types and applications of alternative energy sources including solar, wind, thermal and methane.  The course will look at basic home-energy needs and how green practices can be used both in the home and in a small-business setting.

“We hope to spark interest in the community not only in homes but in businesses that want to learn the advantages of implementing green practices,” said Dawn Busick, the center’s executive director.

Topics to be discussed include: alternative energy systems, hybrid systems, alternative heating and cooling systems along with insulation and windows techniques. A session on hybrid systems will discuss real solutions and current options in the market and how to integrate these systems.

Busick said putting some of the green alternatives to be discussed in the course into practice, consumers and businesses could realize an energy-cost savings as well as help improve the environment.

It also could lead some people to a career in alternative energy, she said.

“The class is intended to expose people to alternatives to see if it’s something they might be interested in. It can be a career opportunity. It is a sustainable occupation that will be around for awhile,” Busick said.

The workforce development class will be held over four nights at the center, 614 N. Washington Ave. Those who sign up can attend any or all of the four sessions. Classes will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $199.

To register, call 447-8888 or email continuinged@otc.edu.

Steve Koehler is coordinator of publications at Ozarks Technical Community College.