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30 CONNECTICUT GREEN GUIDE • SUMMER 2015 www.CTGreenGuide.com Workforce Development Clean trades program develops technicians at early age By Pat Ciarleglio T he Connecticut Clean Trades Program, a partnership between Energize Connecticut and the Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA) Education Foundation, is offering students training in researching, analyzing, and implementing energy efficiency strategies in their schools and communities. Students gain knowledge of related careers by participating in unique real-world learning experiences preparing them for green careers. The clean trades initiative is an extension of our suc- cessful nationally recognized, E-House program through Energize Connecticut, which provides state-of-the-art green training opportunities in both renewable energy, as well as energy conversation methodology to our students. Platt Technical High School carpentry students recently used building science principles they have learned through the clean trades program to perform their first home energy assessment at my home for field experience. With the guidance of United Illuminating's approved Building Performance Institute (BPI)-certified technicians participating in Energize Connecticut's Home Energy Solutions (HES) program, the students were able to evaluate building envelope and energy performance to provide recommendations for advanced energy-saving measures. By performing a home energy assessment, the stu- dents were able to see first-hand the physical check- up of the home and determine how much energy it is using and what improvements can be made. With guidance from expert technicians, the students learned about the following: • Diagnostic testing, blower door air sealing, duct sealing • Installation of energy-saving light bulbs (including LEDs) • Installation of water-saving tools like low-flow showerheads, faucet attachments, and hot water pipe wrap • Eligible appliances will be evaluated for possible rebates or replacement with energy-efficient models • Energy-saving tips on how to lower energy costs • Information on financing for critical upgrades for existing older or inefficient equipment I was very impressed with the attentiveness of the students. They were actively engaged throughout the entire process, and I was pleased to open my home to future tradesmen. This particular training affords the students the ability to enter the workforce with marketable skills, while filling the void that industry currently has. The clean trade's initiative gives students a leg up on un- derstanding and applying building science principles while practicing these competencies in real-world simulations. My position allows me to see the trends in appren- ticeship. Over the last six months, the trend has shown a steady increase in the number of apprentices in Con- necticut (we are currently at more than 5,400). Working collaboratively with our partners, we are able to deliver career-ready students into the energy conservation/re- newable energy workforce. Pat Ciarleglio is an education consultant for the Connecticut Technical High School System, State Department of Education (CTHSS-SDE). Advocate Corner