Renewable Energy and Green Tech Careers

[Grig]

Hi everyone, sorry if this is not on topic with the forum. I am entering my senior year in college and I have recently been becoming more and more interested in green tech and renewable energy as a possible career path. I am familiar with applying and searching for jobs and such, as I am an economics major and am want to work in finance, and I have needed to do so when looking for internships. I am currently interning at a green tech start up firm.

I just wanted to know if anyone is aware of what kind of career paths are available for someone with an economics background in green tech or renewable energy. I have done some research and many of the jobs in this industry focus on individuals with an engineering background, which I completely understand. I was wondering if anyone had an suggestions as to the path that someone with an economics or financial background can take in renewable energy or green tech, and if anyone has any advice as to how to approach this. For example, I know there are investment banks and hedge funds that focus specifically on this sector. Thank you for any help or information.

[jibbguy]

Hi Grig.

I would start googling all the wind turbine manufacturers, and any similar alternative energy manufacturers such as the larger solar installers... There are literally hundreds of these. Get the addresses, and send them a brief description of yourself and that you are interested in applying with them... I would do it via snail mail when possible, it shows that you are more motivated. Try to get an actual name of someone there who handles the hiring (most of these companies are not big enough to have an actual "H.R." department)... Even if you gotta call up there to get it. I don't think you are expected to have an actual Resume yet ... but a brief "Precise" of your education (including any previous work experiences you've had, no matter how minor), and why you want to work in this field would be good to send.

If you have time and can swing it, try to attend a Trade Show for alternative energy. There are usually at least one of these in every major city area per year. That is a great way to collect information, and meet people.. Often if it is a small company, the person you will need to meet is working the booth.

Even some of the "home and garden" type building/remodeling trade shows have quite a bit of alternative energy companies with booths. Tell them who you are, say you mailed them earlier, ask them if they have any advice for your new career

Good luck! I think you've picked a great field to get in to.

[ewizard]

My first thought was having an economics background may be useful to 'green' companies in getting comparisons of costs over the short term as well as long term using 'green' tech versus traditional dirty technology. The costs of doing almost anything and getting a handle on costs will continue to be an important part of changing the energy landscape. Your job may be your skill in providing the statistics and charting of such. Best of luck in your future jobs!

[Grig]

Alright thanks for the suggestions, I appreciate it.