Green Jobs in District 6

August 4th, 2010
I sat down with U.S. Congressman Tierney, (D) 6th District, local educators, and business owners to discuss how we can work together to growing green jobs and developing the North Shore Area as a hub for Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Energy.   One of the key aspects that we discussed, a topic I know is very close to the Congressman’s heart, is how to get people back into the workforce. While I do believe that energy efficiency and being “green” are fantastic first steps in the home improvement market, one of the key aspects to this movement is that these principles should be applied across all trades.

What do I mean by that?  It means that in the very near future, “green” home building will simply be the standard in home building; there won’t be a “green” and “non-green” choice.  Those trades and contractors that recognize this now will be able get ahead of the curve and be leaders in the movement, and those that can’t will be left behind.  I know that when we are looking at companies that become part of our affiliation program, we are looking for those with training to understand how they are affecting the energy efficiency of the whole house.  We preferentially hire those people with this kind of training, and we are certainly not the only company looking to do so.  If an out of work plumber or carpenter wants to differentiate him or herself from the pack, green training in the context of their trade is the way to do it.

The Congressman and the college presidents who participated in the roundtable discussion are taking these principles to heart and we will be working to develop certificate and degree programs at the vocational and trade level that will enhance the understanding of tradespeople on the impact of their actions on the whole house.  By working with these educational leaders in the area, JOEGREEN is making strides to bring about real change, and bring “green” home energy efficiency into the mainstream. 

By Chris Henson, Founder and President of JOEGREEN Home Solutions