Partner Descriptions - Employ Florida Banner Center for Clean Energy

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The Banner Center for Construction (BCC) is Workforce Florida, Inc.’s statewide focus for collecting and disseminating best practices for recruitment, assessment, and training for Florida’s construction industry. Working with construction, education, and workforce professionals, BCC facilitates local partnerships to optimize training and workforce development for the residential, commercial, industrial, and energy construction sectors. BCC works with its partners to develop statewide models for the installation and erection of alternative energy technologies. For more detailed information visit www.buildflorida.org or call 866-489-5335.

Brevard Community College (BCC), located in the heart of the nation’s space coast, is a two-year, publicly supported post-secondary institution, established in 1960 as Brevard Junior College. In addition to the Associate in Arts degree, BCC offers 27 Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science and Applied Technology Diploma programs, 41 College Credit Certificates (CCC) and 24 Post Secondary Adult Vocational (PSAV) programs. BCC also offers non-credit technical and professional training to support local industry training needs. As a partner in the Banner Center for Clean Energy awarded to FSEC, BCC participated in the train-the-trainer offerings and began teaching non-credit courses in photovoltaics and solar thermal in 2008. Beginning in the Fall 2010, BCC now offers an alternative energy systems option in its Engineering Technology AS/AAS degree, and also a standalone CCC – Alternative Energy Systems Specialist. The program consists of such topics as PV, Solar Thermal, and distribution power generation, with electives in building efficiency and Alternative Fuels – courses originally created in partnership with FSEC in 2003. For more detailed information visit ET@brevardcc.edu or call Bruce Hesher at 321-433-5779.

For 50 years Broward College has been educating and training community professionals. Today we enroll more than 60,000 students in traditional and fully-online associate degree programs and are accredited to award bachelor’s degrees in areas like teacher education in critical-need fields, information technology, and supervision and management. Our 56 certificate programs prepare men and women for rewarding careers, and are designed to lead directly into the workforce within three to 12 months. Electronics Solar Technician and Basic Solar Technician are examples of two new solar-related certificates and include program courses such as: Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic Systems and Installation of Solar Photovoltaic Systems. For information about alternative energy programs and certificates contact Donat Forest at 954-201-2324 or e-mail dforest@broward.edu.

BC’s Institute for Renewable Resources provides the continuing education (CE) traditional course offerings: Understanding Electricity & Electrical Concepts, Designing Photovoltaic (PV) Systems, Designing Advanced Grid-Connected PV Systems, Installing PV Systems, Installing Advanced Grid-Connected PV Systems, and Going Green in the Workplace. Online courses include: Certified Green Supply Chain Professional, Certified Indoor Air Quality Manager, Certified Indoor Environmentalist, Performing Comprehensive Building Assessments, Principles of Green Buildings, Senior Certified Sustainability Professional, and Wind Energy Apprentice. For information about our Institute for Renewable Resources contact Norm Seavers at 954-201-7808 or visit www.broward.edu/ce.

Broward Technical Centers (BTC) are composed of three large campuses - Sheridan, McFatter, and Atlantic Technical Centers. Operated by the School Board of Broward County, BTC has recently announced the formation of The Green Ready Program. This program offers extensive technical training in a variety of energy efficient areas including:

Solar PV Advanced Design and Installation – 100hrs
Solar PV Entry Level Installation – 200hrs
Solar Thermal Design and Installation -100hrs
Weatherization Entry Level Techniques - 200hrs
LEED Green Associate – 30hrs

All courses offer classroom instruction, extensive “hands on” experience as well as preparation for appropriate industry certification processes including those offered by NABCEP and BPI. Since BTC is state funded many of these courses are either free (to Broward residents who qualify for DOL grant programs) or extremely inexpensive to others. Visit the BTC Green Ready Program web site for more information or contact the Atlantic Technical Center at 754-321-5100.

The Building Officials Association of Florida (BOAF) mission is to provide for the safety, health and welfare of the citizens of the State of Florida; through the education, development, maintenance and enforcement of building codes using unified strength and resources to attain a thriving business, community and association environment. BOAF offers a range of courses and course materials for designers, contractors, reviewers and inspectors. As a result of our partnership with the Banner Center, course offerings include solar thermal design and inspection, PV systems design and inspection and the detailed code requirements required. Additionally, BOAF trains industry professionals on installation permitting and items required to obtain a permit in Florida. Our statewide guide, developed with the aid of industry professionals and permitting personnel, is continually updated to include current requirements and technologies.

BOAF's membership numbers well over three thousand. Most of these members also belong to other professional organizations and bring to BOAF through their memberships important links to all aspects of the building and development industry. If you would like more information about the benefits of membership or our certification program, please visit the BOAF web site, call 407-804-1001 or e-mail info@boaf.net.

Central Florida Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (Electrical JATC) is the Training Provider established under the International Brotherhood of Electrical Worker (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractor Association (NECA) Collective Bargaining Agreement. The Electrical JATC provides training for apprentices, journeyman electricians, electrical contractors and others in the electrical industry. All apprentices completing the program are certified in the Nuclear Mechanic Apprenticeship Process (NMAP). The Electrical JATC provides journeyman upgrade classes, contractor CEU classes on alternative energy technologies including Photovoltaic Systems, Fuel Cell Technology and wind Generator Systems. For more detailed information visit www.cfelectricaljatc.org or call Jim Sullivan at 407-678-3733.

College of Central Florida (CF), a fully accredited four-year college, offers students the learning opportunities of a large university with a warmer and more personal touch. In a climate that nurtures excellence, CF provides undergraduate instruction and awards associate degrees, bachelor degrees and certificates; prepares students for careers requiring professional and technical training; encourages student success through a variety of support services; and promotes the economic, social, and cultural development of the community.

CF offers more than 70 degree and certificate programs, including an associate in arts degree, which prepares you for work in upper-level degree programs and guarantees transfer to a public university in Florida. After earning an A.A., beginning in 2011 you can also complete the BS degrees in Applied Science and Early Childhood Education at CF. You may also elect to complete other undergraduate and graduates degree courses from major Florida colleges and universities located at CF’s University Center, on the Ocala campus.

The CF Institute of the College of Central Florida is approved as an Alternative Energy Training Provider of the Employ Florida Banner Center for Clean Energy. The partnership ensures state-of-the-art curriculum and access to instructor training workshops that will expand green training opportunities for residents and business organizations throughout Central Florida. The Institute strives to be a major provider of classroom and online training in Alternative Energy and Green Technology. For class schedules visit CFItraining.cf.edu or call Jerone Gamble at 352-854-2322 ext. 1282.

Earth Ethics Institute (EEI) was established in 1993 at Miami Dade College (MDC). The Institute was created at the College to foster a new literacy about the Earth and the natural systems that have evolved over billions of years. These understandings serve as a foundation for sustainable environmental practices in all activities and disciplines. EEI provides resources, workshops, programs and projects that address the role higher education can play in re-thinking how we create communities of integrity, beauty and resiliency. In addition, the Institute collaborates with organizations and other institutions in the larger community to share knowledge about environmentally sustainable living and business practices, encourage dialogue about innovative environmentally sustainable approaches relevant to our community, offer professional development opportunities, and offer hands-on service learning opportunities for students. For more detailed information visit www.earthethicsinstitute.org or call Colleen Ahern-Hettich at 305-237-3796.

Florida Keys Community College (FKCC) is an open-access, educational institution dedicated to serving the intellectual, diverse, cultural, and occupational needs of the Florida Keys as well as the global community. The college is committed to student-centric academic programs and services, workforce development, continuing education, diverse partnerships, electronically delivered instruction, and sustainable practices that prepare students for personal success and responsible citizenship. FKCC strives to ensure that its students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in their educational, professional, and personal endeavors. FKCC is currently offering a non-credit “Solar Thermal Installation” course and “Solar Panel Installation” course soon to be scheduled. FKCC is an approved test site for NABCEP which gives the option for students to take Entry Level Knowledge Certification Exam after successful completion of the 40 hour training for Photovoltaics. For more information visit www.fkcc.edu or contact the Office of Continuing Education and Workforce at 305-809-3185.

The Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) hosts the Banner Center for Clean Energy. The largest and most active state-supported organization of its kind in the United States, FSEC’s mission is to research and develop renewable energy, energy-efficiency and alternative energy technologies and offer training programs in those areas. Continuing education classes at FSEC include solar water heating, photovoltaics, alternative fuels, solar energy for disaster relief, energy-efficient building design, energy rating, and education programs for teachers, students and the general public. Most courses include both classroom instruction and hands-on field experience. In many cases, attendees can receive continuing education units (CEUs) and some courses are approved for Florida professional license renewals. FSEC webinar and class schedules are available online.

Island Coast High School (ICHS) partnered with the University of Florida to create a one of a kind Academy in Lee County, the Academy of Natural Resources. The Academy enrolls 150 students from Lee County who learn about aquaculture, aquaponics, alternative energies, ecological restoration and environmental stewardship. The Academy’s mission is to provide a foundation for students planning to pursue a career in the environmental job market and offers students the ability to earn a state certification in production agriculture, entry level solar, and horticulture. Enrollment is limited to 150 students.

ICHS teachers have completed a Train the Trainer Workshop at the Florida Solar Energy Center and now offer a photovoltaic (solar electric) energy class to third year Academy students. At the end of the course students will have the opportunity to take a test to earn their Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge through NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practioners). ICHS also is one of three schools in Lee County to receive a 10 KW solar system through the SunSmart e-Shelters Program managed by the Florida Solar Energy Center. For more information about solar courses visit our web site or call (239) 458-0362.

Lake-Sumter Community College is a Banner Center for Clean Energy partner and specializes in Electrical Distribution Technology with Lineworker training education offering Technical Certificates and an AAS Degree. The College is working with Lake County in developing an energy efficiency and conservation effort through the LSCC Business Assistance Center to provide local educational opportunities in sustainable energy and green building technologies. On line and web supported activities are to be offered through ed2go programs in Building Analyst Quick Start leading to Building Performance Institute certification, and Principles of Green Building performing comprehensive building assessments. Publication of coming course offerings will be posted on the Business Resources Center /Lake-Sumter Community College web page www.BusinessResourcesCenter.org.

Miami Dade College (MDC) encompasses eight campuses and more than 170,000 students from around the world. The College offers over 300 programs of study and several degree options, including vocational, associate, and baccalaureate degrees. MDC’s Green Technology Institute was launched to help meet the growing demand for green jobs. To this end, the Green Technology Institute at the North Campus now offers both basic and advanced courses in Photovoltaic Design and Installation, NABCEP certification in PV and Solar Thermal, Weatherization, Indoor Environmental Hygienist and LEED Review Workshops. For more detailed information, visit http://www.mdc.edu/ce/north or call Barbara Alfonso at 305-237-1118.

Pinellas Technical Education Centers (pTEC) offers first-rate career and technical education at two campuses – Clearwater and St. Petersburg – focusing on over 40 exciting career areas and about 60 programs. The St. Petersburg campus offers several construction programs that include solar energy/energy efficiency as part of their curriculum: Plumbing Technology, Electricity, Building Construction Technologies, Architectural Drafting, and Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology. These programs also provide training and preparation in appropriate industry certifications such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Refrigerant Handling Certification, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety Training, and various levels of certification offered through the Home Builders Institute (Residential Construction Academy) and the National Center for Construction, Education, and Research (NCCER).

In 2010, the Electricity program was awarded a State Farm grant (through SkillsUSA) to participate in a project entitled Solar Power to Save Energy. The project was built by students as a teaching aid for the solar portion of the Electricity program’s curriculum and involved wiring and installing several solar panels to serve as a partial power source for pTEC.

pTEC is also expanding an ongoing partnership with WorkNet Pinellas to provide training in other areas of energy efficiency – Weatherization Installer and Weatherization Auditor.

For more information, please visit our website – www.myptec.org – or call Mr. Boe Norwood, Assistant Administrator, at (727) 893-2500, extension 2003.

Seminole Vocational Education Center provides technical education to three Pinellas District High Schools, Largo, Osceola and Seminole. In addition to Power and Energy Technology, courses offered include: Electrical Wiring, Carpentry, Commercial and Digital Arts, Environmental Science, Horticulture and Animal Veterinary Science. Students have the opportunity to earn industry recognized certification which is beneficial for employment or continuing with post secondary education. For more detailed information visit www.mysvec.com or call Peter Berry at 727-545-6405.

Since 1966, Tallahassee Community College (TCC) has offered high-quality post-secondary education for the Big Bend Region of the state of Florida bringing in students from across the state, nation and abroad. With excellent faculty members, academic support, classroom/lab facilities and Web-based classes, TCC offers a variety of instructional methods to ensure student success.

Now, TCC offers courses in alternative energy technology through the Florida Green Academy (FGA). FGA is a dynamic center of excellence dedicated to existing and emerging "green" occupations and industries, such as energy, construction, water resources, manufacturing, and transportation. The college has successfully established alternative energy training programs for solar hot water systems installation, photovoltaic systems installation, and weatherization/energy conservation. These programs were developed in collaboration with powerful partners including the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) at the University of Central Florida, City of Tallahassee Utilities, the local workforce investment board, weatherization organizations, state and local government agencies, and renewable energy industry partners. For information regarding our Alternative Energy Training programs and courses, we invite you to visit alternative energy program or call (850) 201-8760.

Operating since 1971, The Contractor’s Institute has evolved into the largest construction school in Florida. We have worked with over 70,000 students, preparing them to pass Florida state and county contractor exams. With a 95% pass rate, we are proud that our students are the best prepared students at the exam. Staying with current trends, The Contractor’s Institute now offers exam preparation for solar hot water and photovoltaic technologies. This exciting NEW course gives contractors an understanding and ability to get started in the solar and alternate energy market. Day one covers the fundamentals of domestic hot water and pool heating, including heat recovery units. Design, installation, inspection, permitting and licensing issues unique to Florida's environment, as well as Florida Codes and regulations, will be covered.

Day two introduces the photovoltaic fundamentals and alternate electrical energy production. This covers common sizing and location issues unique to Florida's environment, and Florida Codes and regulations governing this industry. Panel design, installation, location, inspection and permitting issues are examined with real-life examples. Innovative marketing techniques in the solar and photovoltaic industries are also discussed, including incentives and tax credits. To find out more, email or call 1-877-542-3673.

Valencia Community College (VCC) is a premier learning college that transforms lives, strengthens community, and inspires individuals to excellence. Valencia is an innovative leader in higher education with a national reputation for teaching excellence. Valencia’s mission is to provide opportunities for academic, technical, and life-long learning in a collaborative culture dedicated to inquiry, results and excellence. With four campuses and two centers in the Orlando area, Valencia is now the third largest of Florida's 28 community colleges, teaching more than 50,000 students a year. Armed with practical knowledge, Valencia's faculty and staff put their energies into a "learning-centered" philosophy that emphasizes individual student success. Valencia produced more associate's degree graduates in 2003 than any other two-year school in the nation. Among the top 100 universities, colleges, and community colleges, Valencia once again ranked 2nd in the number of associate's degrees conferred. Valencia is currently offering a 3 credit hour “Introduction to Alternative and Renewable Energy” course and a 3 credit hour “Photovoltaics” course under our Architecture, Engineering, and Technology Division. For more detailed information visit www.valenciacc.edu or call Debbie Hall 407-582-1902.

Westside Tech, a division of Orange County Public Schools, provides a wide selection of job preparatory and academic programs. Our mission is to offer quality programs and instruction consistent with current and emerging educational and labor needs. Dedicated to providing affordable technical training, academic programs and personal enrichment at our main campus and area community centers, Westside Tech offers 20 career certificate courses of study. Career certificate programs fast track you into great paying careers plus your certificate may be converted into college credits...if or when you choose to continue your education in the future.

In our partnering efforts with the Banner Center for Clean Energy and Workforce Florida, Westside Tech now offers both solar photovoltaic and solar thermal classes. Students learn the basics of solar installation, including basic electrical principles and terminology, basic principles of solar thermal systems, types of systems, identification of parts and components, solar site selection, hardware installation, panel installation and connections, and practical application projects on-site. To find out more about our solar courses, visit us online or call (407) 904-2306.

Withlacoochee Technical Institute, located in Citrus County, FL, provides high quality academic and technical education to prepare students for current and emerging occupations in a competitive workforce. At WTI planning for the future is constant. Using state of the art equipment and a wide array of instructional techniques, our students excel in the workplace. Responding to the needs of the community WTI is conducting a 600 hour class in Solar Thermal System Design, Installation and Maintenance. The program’s rigorous content is aligned with academic standards and relevant technical knowledge that is needed to enter the trade or pursue further education in the energy career cluster. Students study the components of photovoltaic (PV) systems, interpreting blueprints and schematics, building codes and permitting, the placement or location of a system on a structure, installing systems to National Roofing Contractor’s Association Standards, basic electrical circuits and controls, and calibrating and troubleshooting systems for both on grid and off grid installations. Students also learn about solar water heating systems and pool heating systems. WTI is a member of the Florida Renewable Energy Association, the American Solar Energy Society and the National SAVE Energy Coalition. For more information visit http://www.wtionline.cc/ or call student services at 352-726-2430 ext 244.