Vermont Tech Offers New Degree
Program in Sustainable Technology

Vermont Technical College in Randolph Center is preparing a new generation of graduates who are technologically oriented and specifically trained to bolster the state’s emerging "green" industry. This fall, the first class of students will begin studies in the college’s new Bachelor of Science degree program in Sustainable Design and Technology.

"Graduates of this program will learn to apply technology creatively and sustainably to reduce our impact on our dwindling natural resources, help individuals and businesses comply with environmental regulations, and serve and grow Vermont's emerging Green Valley environment," said Program Coordinator Joan Richmond-Hall.

The program will allow students to specialize in one of three tracks: Green Energy, Green Buildings, or Green Sites. Students will first complete an associate’s degree in a specific technology-based program and then will enter one of the three tracks to complete the bachelor’s program.

The Green Energy track focuses on traditional and alternative means of producing, using and conserving energy, with an emphasis on renewable energy. Students would first complete studies in either Electrical Engineering Technology or Mechanical Engineering Technology before entering this track.

The Green Building track involves the creation and renovation of residential and commercial buildings that conserve energy without sacrificing function and design, and are built with sustainable materials with the goal of LEED certification. Prior to entering this track, students would first complete studies in either Architectural and Building Engineering Technology or Construction Practices and Management.

The Green Sites track focuses on the responsible design, engineering, permitting, and creation of residential and commercial building sites, roads, farms, and water systems. The focus in such work is intended to promote ecosystem integration and the ethical stewardship of natural resources. Students would prepare to enter this track by completing a degree in one of three programs: Civil and Environmental Engineering Technology, Dairy Farm Management, or Landscape Development and Ornamental Horticulture.

"In addition to careers working within the technical fields related to their associate’s degree, graduates will be prepared to work with new sustainable technologies as project managers or technical staff," said Richmond-Hall. "For students entering the program with work experience, the bachelor’s degree will enhance their potential for career advancement by providing skills needed to succeed in business environments. Individuals who run companies of all sizes in the fields of maintenance, installation, and design and construction should also find this program relevant and valuable."

As students enter their junior year of the bachelor’s program, they will work in interdisciplinary teams to problem-solve and address a range of sustainable topics. A summer internship experience will pair students with companies and institutions using or considering green technologies.

The senior project work will require students to work in cross-disciplinary teams to find and apply solutions to real-world problems. College officials hope students of this program will become involved with a variety of green initiatives now ongoing at the college.

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