The University of Alberta’s new certification, which began this fall, will help staff move quickly into the district’s rapidly growing renewable energy sector.
The RET Certificate is the first in Alberta to offer students the flexibility of online, part-time instruction without barriers to entry. Extension Faculty Program Coordinator, Numi Dua, said it could be completed within a year to increase their knowledge and become a viable option for professionals who are actively seeking employment.
“The certification will enable energy professionals to provide employers with the knowledge and skills they need to respond to the advancement of renewable energy technologies.
According to Pure Energy Canada 2021, jobs in Alberta, Canada, are ready to see the most dramatic growth, with jobs growing by 164 percent over the next decade.
Nationally, the current workforce is estimated at 430,500 people, and is expected to grow by about 50 percent to 639,200 by 2030.
RET certificates are awarded to U of A for students who have completed seven related courses in renewable energy, including wind and solar technologies.
The certificate provides basic and intermediate skills to professionals who want to develop, manage or improve their understanding of the ongoing electricity sector, including policy analysts, local sector workers, project managers, industry executives, project developers and investors.
In general, the courses provide individuals with specific knowledge and skills in the field of renewable energy to help them understand each step required to plan, plan, launch, implement and manage concepts.
There is a growing demand for such workers as climate change makes itself felt in emergencies such as global warming, wildfires and droughts, says lead course instructor Gabriel John Malashi.
Renewable energy sources and efficient technologies are leading the way in finding solutions to climate change, he said, adding that industries and organizations are making energy transitions.
They need professionals who provide insights and strategic solutions to the challenges and opportunities in renewable energy, and this certification is designed to engage people into the discussion.
The course design of the courses encourages critical thinking and problem solving by examining current energy events and issues through the perspective of sustainable practices and building awareness of the benefits of environmental, social, economic, distribution and energy access.
According to Malashi, the courses provide “bilateral dialogue” between students and their teachers, as part of the curriculum, as part of the curriculum, for example, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Fort Chippian.
It provides meaningful learning as students try to gain insights into areas such as best practices and the most balanced and environmentally friendly policies around the world.
| By Bev Betkovsky
This article was published in the online journal of the University of Alberta Folio. The University of Alberta is a partner in Troy Media Editorial Content.
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