`Green-collar` jobs enviable

Demand for employees in environmental positions likely to keep growing

Beacon Journal business writer
June 29, 2008
By Paula Schleis
Beacon Journal Business Writer

What`s a ``green-collar`` job?

More than 14 million people in traditional white-collar and blue-collar occupations are going to find out.

That`s how many existing jobs are expected to have a role in America`s search for alternative energy sources, the fight against global warming and growing respect for a long-abused environment.

A study by the University of Massachusetts Amherst this month defines a green worker as one whose everyday job contributes to solving environmental problems.

That definition is drawing in more people every year.

For instance, the construction of wind farms is tapping sheet metal workers, machinists and truck drivers. Increasing the energy efficiency of a building employs roofers, insulators and building inspectors. Expanding mass transit systems will involve civil engineers, electricians and dispatchers.

And as workers in dozens of traditional occupations increase in demand, they`ll likely see their compensations rise and enjoy greater job security, the report said.

Last week, the United Steelworkers and the Blue Green Alliance stopped in Canton and Cleveland on a tour to educate members about their future.

Lee Geisse, a 22-year maintenance employee at Allegheny Ludlum in Louisville, took a yearlong leave to work with the union in spreading hope to a steel industry that has been devastated by job cuts and closures.

Once the green economy really gets rolling, she said, steel industry employees will be needed to build wind turbines, retrofit buildings, and assemble solar panels.

``We realize it`s a whole new world out there. Alternative energies are going to be huge and it will be here sooner than we think,`` Geisse said. `` . . . We`re ready. We have the expertise.``

Still confused about that green-collar?

Today the Beacon Journal introduces you to five people who already are wearing them.

To read full article, click here.

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