In 2000, the U.S. Congressionally Chartered 21^st Century Workforce Commission released its report, A Nation of Opportunity: Building America’s 21st Century Workforce.   The report documented the opportunities and challenges ahead and how “the digital revolution is dramatically powering America’s transition from the Old Economy to the New Economy. Technology spurs changes in how we learn, work, and go about our daily lives.”

One of the dramatic growth areas is the green technology arena.  Hundreds of thousands of workers will be needed to connect our personal and professional lives to the energy-efficient tools and fuels that are coming out of the labs today and in the future. The ESPA Certified-EST^® certification is an excellent first-step credential for these workers who need re-training as well as for students coming out of our schools – eager for a 21^st century job.

We’re already talking to many leaders in the green field who are looking at the workers they need to transition to the many benefits offered by these technologies. Our partners also have teams working on this initiative for their individual memberships.   If you would like more information on these activities or would like to add your own thoughts to this effort, contact ESPA at administration@espa.org .