The emerging green sector holds out exceptional employment opportunities for Women nationwide. This is a unique chance for educating and training a diverse array of workers for the green sector, including women. Numerous grants are offered by the US government in order to stimulate the integration of women in all sectors of activity, including in the fast developing green economy.

Recent studies provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that the American economy has lost over 6.5 million jobs since 2007. You can only imagine the effect of the crisis on the work market, which has resulted in the loss of manufacturing and construction jobs. Women were deeply affected by the increasing unemployment rate, especially single women who face an 11% unemployment rate compared to 6% for men).

Considering the current economic problems and the unemployment rate, it is essential to create quality job opportunities for people who need it the most. Creating solar energy careers is one of the most positive steps made by the government in order to reduce the effects of the crisis. These careers encompass a variety of skills and qualifications, from manufacturing, accounting, installment, engineering or secretarial positions.

So if you have never considered having a solar career just because you belong to the fairer sex, Maybe you should reconsider! Check out why choosing a green job is one of the smartest decisions you will make in the coming decades:

· Better Earning potential

The renewable energy sector provides some of the top paying jobs for women.

· Numerous Career Opportunities

Women think that the green sector requires a long list of specialized training courses, university degrees etc. The truth is that with the bloom of the green movement, it is much easier to enter this new job market, simply by taking few specialized solar training courses. Career opportunities are endless, especially considering the fact that women have limited representation in positions that predominate in the renewable energy sector.

· Job Stability

Working in the green sector provides job stability. With more and more Fortune 500 businesses choosing an alternative renewable energy source to operate their business, the effect only amplifies at the grass roots level.  The green sector is here to stay and alternative sources of energy are part of our future. This only reemphasizes the security for people with careers in this sector. An economic crisis or recession is less likely to affect your job in the Solar Energy sector than if you were to work in a ‘conventional’ industry.

Here are two profiles of women who have managed to succeed in the green energy sector.

ü Energy Analyst

She is actively involved in wind power jobs, renewable energy policy, wind power manufacturing and supply chain. Suzanne used to be a teaching assistant at a local university, and then worked as a communications director in a Bay Area company. Entering the field of green energy has valued her skills and commitment to a healthier environment, especially as she is also a committee member of Women of Wind Energy.  

 ü Certified Solar Installer

 With a BS in Engineering with electronic and computer specialization, Vicki is currently the only Certified PV installer in Texas, proving that women can indeed fit in this man-dominated industry. She has become an integral part of the green company she works at. From answering phones, designing or installing PV systems or invoicing clients, Vicki has built a solid career in green energy.

To some of you, working in the green energy sector may look like a tough challenge. However, there is one thing I know: the first barrier is in your own mind. In order to have access to the best paying careers for women, you need motivation, commitment and an open mind.

§ Do your research and find out more about the green energy industry

§ Start by taking one or two solar energy training courses

Solar Careers are for everyone!