Choices and options for fuel cell training is an individualized process these days, as is most education. Choices and options can be a little confusing and overwhelming. There are online courses and certifications. There are also traditional colleges and universities.

Small business today needs to look at the education question at a deeper level and ask, "Is it the diploma that is important and necessary for my career path?" or, "Do I simply need a rigorous program that will get my business in the mainstream fast?” You can find good non-accredited hydrogen training programs. You need to research the same way parents and high school students look for the right college or university. There are plenty of less than sterling courses out there too. So, buyer beware. Consider the following when looking for hydrogen industry education:

1. Look at energy education offered by best schools in the nation.

2. See more university hydrogen education and training.

3. Find resources, associations and learning tools for hydrogen fuel cell energy.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use the best universities for your hydrogen and fuel cell education and training

Go to one of the best schools in that nation for a degree that holds up under scrutiny. These schools have the budgets, research staff and dedicated students to find the answers to challenging questions.

I recommend: See what Stanford University is doing in the renewable energy field. Get your business involved in hydrogen fuel cell research to make hydrogen a primary energy carrier. New hydrogen technologies promise to play a role in the design of future energy conversion and distribution equipment. Energy Initiatives at MIT leads research programs in new technology with emphasis on challenging problems in the social, political and scientific arena as well.

Look at more established universities offering fuel cell education and training

Go to an established school for a good education, degree or certification. The education you receive from these schools can be included in a specialized engineering, environmental sciences or renewable energy degree program. Get an education that no one can ever take from you.

I recommend: Take classes at the University of Hawaii at Manoa in hydrogen, photoelectrochemical and biological hydrogen production. The engineering department at the University of Maryland offers classes in renewable and sustainable energy.

Look at online tutorials and associations for hydrogen education and networking

Look at these associations and tutorials about hydrogen fuel cell energy.

I recommend: Watch this animated video at MTU Nanotechnology on hydrogen fuel cell technology. Learn about hydrogen, energy and media policies, safety and look at the job boards at the National Hydrogen Association. Find more resources about fuel cells at H2FuelCells.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Training programs and schools have popped up all over the Internet. It's a great opportunity for convenient education. However, watch the fine print. Look at the testimonials. Check Better Business Bureaus. Compare prices. Make sure the school is not too expensive compared to other schools, and that it offers a good solid program. Hydrogen fuel education is a rarefied field of study. You won't find too many online schools offering certified or accredited education in hydrogen fuels yet.