Energy industry education is an individualized process these days. No longer do you simply register at the local technical institute or college and start classes. The choices and options for training and education can be almost overwhelming. There are traditional colleges and universities with degree programs. Seminars, workshops, online courses and certifications are another option.

The student today needs to look at the equation at a deeper level and ask questions, “Is it the diploma that is important and necessary for my career path?” or, “Do I simply need a rigorous program that will get me in the workforce quickly?” You can find good non-accredited trading seminars and programs. You need to research schools and training programs; the same way parents and high school students look for the right college or university to attend. There are plenty of con artists out there, on the web especially, offering less than sterling courses too. Buyer beware. Consider the following when looking for energy industry training:

1. Find established schools with accredited programs in energy efficiency.

2. Use online courses to get your energy industry training.

3. Look at workshops, research centers and other online resources for energy training.

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

Use established colleges and schools for energy education

Go to an established school for a good education, degree or certification that will hold up under scrutiny. Fully accredited schools will give you something no one can ever take from you.

I recommend: SMU Cox School of Business offers classes in energy –oil, natural gas and electricity. Washington State University delivers energy courses and programs in resource efficiency management, renewable energy, industrial services, climate change and buildings science to name a few topics.

Take rigorous energy industry training courses online

There are many fine energy industry business training courses online. Look for testimonials and professional looking web sites. There are as many or more low standard programs and even scams online, as well. Find the great programs by researching, asking questions and scrutinizing.

I recommend: PGS Energy delivers online seminars in topics such as economics of energy and the electric power industry. EnergyDynamics offers online energy essentials courses for employees and anyone interested in learning more about the natural gas and electricity industries.

Find energy industry training seminars, workshops, research centers and other resources online

You need to do your research. Just like the high school senior looking for the right university to go to, you need to define your needs and goals and find the right school. Define your goals and look at energy industry classes and resources offered online.

I recommend: Look at the resources and information at the Energy and Environment Research Center. Solar Energy International offers two-week and six-day training sessions in renewable fuels, solar electricity and thermal energy among other topics.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When it comes to online programs, formulate clear goals and needs before choosing energy industry classes. If you want accredited, check for accreditation. Maybe you just need a rigorous program to get you up to speed quick. Beware of trading programs that promise more than they can deliver. Look at testimonials and teacher credentials and backgrounds to find a good training program that meets your needs.