Shortage of Qualified Energy Professionals

ATLANTA, Oct. 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), a non-profit professional society of over 14,000 members, released the results of its survey on Green Jobs and Energy Industry Market Trends.

Based on the current economic condition and the need for job creation, the survey indicated there were many opportunities to create a new workforce based on the innovative technologies being deployed as well as the number of experienced professionals scheduled to exit the energy industry.  Based on over 1,500 qualified responses from energy professionals currently employed in the field, the survey found:

• 67% indicate there is a shortage today of energy management practitioners.
• 37% of experienced energy – utility professionals plan to retire in the next ten years.
• 60% of energy professionals surveyed indicate a need for national and state training for "Green Jobs" to address job shortages that are impairing growth in green industries, such as energy efficient buildings and construction, renewable electric power, energy efficient vehicles and bio-fuels development.
• 57% have received higher recognition for their energy efficiency responsibilities.
• 42% have indicated increased availability of utility rebate programs for energy conservation or alternative projects.
• 62% have considered the installation of renewable technologies such as wind or solar at their business.

According to Albert Thumann, Executive Director of the Association of Energy Engineers, "The need to develop a pool of qualified energy & green collar professionals servicing the commercial, industrial, & governmental marketplace has never been greater. There is a dire need to implement programs and policies to stimulate effective energy efficiency training.  The jobs are there – the skilled professionals to fulfill them may not be."

AEE will be presenting these findings at the World Energy Engineering Congress starting December 8th in Washington, D.C.  Noted author of "Hot, Flat & Crowded," Thomas Friedman is the show's keynote speaker.  The speech outlines the new energy economy as well as resource planning.  The event features a Technology Expo, Conference program, Workshops, Certification, Council on Woman in Energy & Environment Leadership, and many other networking activities.

Take advantage of a free expo pass to the WEEC, using the link http://www.aeeprograms.com/shows/pdfs/2010WEECExpoPass.pdf  

The complete Green Jobs survey may be downloaded at http://www.aeecenter.org

The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) is a non-profit professional organization whose mission is to promote those engaged in the energy industry and to foster sustainable development.  AEE has over 14,000 members in 73 countries.

SOURCE Association of Energy Engineers