Shoreline’s Clean Energy Technology Program awarded National Science Foundation grant

Students in Shoreline’s Clean Energy Tech program complete a mock installation of
a battery based photovoltaic system on the demonstration roof
next to the Zero Energy House on Shoreline’s campus.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Community College

Shoreline Community College was awarded a National Science Foundation grant to enhance its Clean Energy Technology (CET) program over the next three years.

The $168,242 grant will assure that the CET program is equipped to ensure students develop a skillset that prepares them for high-skill technology jobs in the field of clean energy. Careers in the green building sector continue to see steady growth, particularly in the Greater Seattle area, which surpasses the nation in energy management and systems technology jobs.

With the National Science Foundation funding, Shoreline Community College will upgrade its Clean Energy Technology curriculum to expedite graduates’ placement into energy design and management jobs.

The program will also include long-term project-based learning experiences to give students first-hand experience with authentic research and field activities that they will conduct once they are employed.

Another goal of the grant is to increase the regional awareness and interest in clean energy technology. Currently, there is no national title for a clean energy technologist. However, Shoreline's industry advisory board has identified a need for such a position and the grant funding will allow Shoreline to develop skill standards that align with industry needs.

“By developing a curriculum that addresses industry-identified needs and contains job-specific experiences — such as higher levels of software and engineering knowledge — the revitalized program will help students develop a skillset that prepares them for high-skill technology jobs in the field of clean energy,” says Louise Petruzzella, director of the Clean Energy Technology program.

The Clean Energy Technology program started in 2009 and provides students with a solid foundation in alternative energy systems, green building techniques, residential and commercial metering and control systems, sustainable business practices, and entrepreneurship.

Shoreline Community College was founded in 1964 with leadership from the Shoreline School District and on land acquired with the help from the Boeing family, Shoreline Community College offers more than 100 excellent academic and professional/technical programs. The professional / technical programs at Shoreline are closely tied to industry and graduates gain the skills that help them quickly find employment in their chosen field.