Environmental Technology is a field that applies the basic principles of science and engineering to manage and protect natural resources and to ensure community health and safety.

Federal regulations require that industrial and environmental hazards be contained, tested, monitored, remediated, and disposed of whether the economy is strong or weak, and those jobs cannot be outsourced overseas.

While many industries in Massachusetts have experienced decline, environmental technology is experiencing growth. The Occupational Handbook projects 21%-35% growth through 2010; Massachusetts DET projects a 31% growth in the greater Boston area. While entry-level jobs in the field require specialized skills, those skills can be acquired in a relatively short time.

Job clusters include Air & Water Quality Monitoring, Emergency Preparedness & Response, Waste Management, Hazardous Materials Handling and Transport, and Site Management.

The average entry-level job pays $18.50 per hour or $34,000 per year

Features:

• Prepares individuals for currently available jobs
• Trains for jobs in growth industries
• Teaches technical skills that become a platform for further advancement
• Provides ongoing case management & post-placement counseling
• Trains for jobs that pay a livable wage and benefit packages
• Prepares trainees for continuing education

Eligibility:

Candidates must be 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED certificate. Trainees are chosen based upon their performance on the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE), other assessments, and a personal interview.