July 1, 2010
For immediate use

(Hillsborough, N.C.) – Durham Technical Community College’s Orange County Campus is highlighting its new Sustainable Technology program on Saturday, July 10, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Area residents have the opportunity to learn more about this new program. They can also view solar technology demonstrations and displays and talk to solar technology professionals.
 
Some highlights include:

• Seeing mobile solar technology displays provided by Solar Tech South, Nature’s Energy Solutions, and Southern Energy Management;
• Learning about the proposed solar technology lab and monitoring equipment;
• Hearing music from a solar-powered amplifier;
• Enjoying fresh sun tea and locally grown food.

 
Durham Tech President Dr. Bill Ingram, Orange County Commissioner Chair Valerie Foushee, and representatives from Duke Energy will address the gathering at 11 a.m. Officials from the Orange County Economic Development office, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, and other agencies will be on hand during the event.

The new Sustainable Technology program is designed to train workers in the installation, repair, and upgrade of sustainable technology systems. These systems are used by government municipalities, corporations, small businesses, and homeowners. The Sustainable Technology program, which will include an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, prepares students for employment in environmental, construction, alternative energy, manufacturing, or other industries which emphasize energy production and waste reduction, along with sustainable technologies.

Beginning this fall, the program will offer the Alternate Energy certificate. This certificate is designed for licensed electricians, those pursuing an electrical degree, and those who are working in facilities services under the supervision of an electrician. The certificate instruction includes both energy audits and solar photovoltaic system installation. 

This new program will position Durham Tech’s Orange County Campus and Orange County as a leader and model in the state for developing innovative and practical green training programs and initiatives. 

For more information, contact Carlo Robustelli at 919-536-7200, ext. 4202, or cell 919 -619-0870, or robustec@durhamtech.edu.