If you’re interested in exploring green jobs, training in outdoor careers, or power generation technology, you have a new home in the Environmental Resources Program at College of the Siskiyous. Associate of Science Degrees and certificates are available in Environmental Resources Technology, Sustainable Communities, and Power Generation Technology. Spring 2010 registration is now available online at www.siskiyous.edu/registration.htm. Spring classes will begin January 11, 2010.

“We’ve had a successful first semester,” says Program Grant Manager Christy Cummings Dawson. “Ninety-five students enrolled in fall classes. That is a great turnout for the start of a brand new program. Classes are starting to fill for our spring semester, but there is still plenty of space available. Bring your curiosity and enthusiasm for these subjects and join the program. I am happy to help any student match their interests to the appropriate course or degree program”

The Environmental Resources Technology program trains students to be natural resource technicians. Spring course offerings include: Introduction to Environmental Resources, Forest Ecology, Dendrology, and Introduction to Field Studies. Jobs available with this training include technician-level work in forestry, fisheries or wildlife management for a number of private companies and government agencies.

The Sustainable Communities program offers a practical, integrated and interdisciplinary examination of the interactions between humans and natural ecosystems with an emphasis on solutions and entrepreneurship. Studies in energy efficiency, agriculture and natural resources, entrepreneurship/sustainable business, outdoor recreation, and university transfer are in the program. Career options with this degree are wide-ranging from being an energy auditor to a farmer. Spring course offerings include: Introduction to Sustainable Communities, Sustainable Communities Skills Lab, Building Performance and Efficiency, and Outdoor Adventure Leadership.

In the Power Generation Technology Program, students receive training in mechanical and electrical systems, and will be prepared for entry-level positions in the steam and electrical power generation and distribution industry. The first year of the program is offered through online courses that can be taken anywhere a student has internet access. Spring course offerings for students continuing in the program include: Plant Water Chemistry and Treatment, Gas Turbine Engines and Generators, Steam Turbines and Generators, Boilers and Heat Recovery Generators, and Work Experience. The introductory courses for Power Generation Technology will begin again in fall 2010.

For more information about the new programs and spring course offerings visit www.siskiyous.edu/cte/environmental/ or call Christy Cummings Dawson at (530) 938-5305 or email  cummingsc@siskiyous.edu. To register for classes online visit www.siskiyous.edu/registration.htm or call (530) 938-5555 or toll-free (888) 397-4339.