On October 10th, National Wildlife Federation's Western Natural Resource Center co-hosted the "Green Industrial, Business & Career Expo" in Seattle with the goal of moving beyond the talk about “green jobs” and a “green economy” to action and opportunities. By showcasing clean energy technologies and associated workforce training programs from around the region, the expo confirmed that green-collar jobs are available here and now.

     The Expo brought together over 350 businesspeople, educators, students, labor leaders, social justice activists, workforce development representatives, environmental advocates and government agencies that share common goals to expand renewable energy resources and support programs that introduce young people and incumbent workers to "green-collar" career opportunities. Community outreach and educational leadership opportunities provided teachers and other participants with a better understanding of the nature and potential of green-collar jobs.

     Over 60 different exhibitors showcased advanced fuel technologies; hybrid and plug-in vehicles; renewable energy technologies including solar, wind and geothermal; innovations in waste reduction, recycled and sustainable materials; and energy efficiency strategies. These demonstrations highlighted associated workforce training opportunities and incentives available to businesses that are ready to "go green". South Seattle Community College's Georgetown Campus was an ideal location for the Expo because it of its brand new state-of-the-art $20 million training facilities and its initiatives in developing “green-collar” education and training programs.

     In addition to exhibits and demonstrations, workshops and plenary sessions offered opportunities to learn more about the emergent green economy. Jerome Ringo, President of the Apollo Alliance and National Wildlife Federation's past Board Chairman, delivered an inspiring keynote address highlighting the potential of green-collar jobs to turn around our economy and help reverse global warming.

     America's need for energy independence has been prominently featured in the media as the potential of the green economy becomes a reality. A new report released by the Center for American Progress ("Green Recovery: A New Program to Create Good Jobs and Start Building a Low-Carbon Economy") shows that the United States can create 2 million jobs over two years by investing in a rapid green economic recovery program (to view to full report, click here). According to the report, Washington’s net job creation through the green economic recovery program would total 42,690 jobs (to see Washington's fact sheet, click here).

     National Wildlife Federation would like to extend our gratitude to everyone involved in making the Green Expo a success. Thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors, and fellow co-hosts the Manufacturing Industrial Council of Seattle and the Washington Apollo Alliance. To learn more about the "Green Industrial, Business & Career Expo", visit: http://www.nwgreenexpo.com/.