CSNDC is thrilled to announce that we have launched our new Green Infrastructure Training & Certification Program and seven graduates of the inaugural class took the certification exam on November 7.
With the support of a grant from the JPB Foundation, in conjunction with The Nature Conservancy, as well as a grant from NeighborWorks America, this program prepares people to be certified in and to work in the green infrastructure field. It is designed for people at all levels, and no previous skills or knowledge of green infrastructure is required.
Green Infrastructure focuses on stormwater management practices that protect, restore or mimic the natural water cycle. Many of the concrete ‘islands’ with plant materials in the middle of major thoroughfares in and around Boston are examples of green infrastructure projects. This infrastructure is designed to absorb, clean and reduce stormwater. Many bigger green infrastructure projects are planned in the public and private realm over the coming decades. There will be a need for trained and certified green infrastructure professionals to install/construct green projects/facilities, as well as to inspect and maintain these projects, all while improving storm water management and our environment.
“The class is a great introduction and overview of a very capable career opportunity for me,” said Mujihad Muhammad, one of the class participants.
The 35-hour course offers a body of knowledge defined by national experts at the National Green Infrastructure Certification Program (NGICP) and describes the green infrastructure practice and how it functions. It trains people in green infrastructure construction, inspection and maintenance areas, focused on best practices. The training culminates in a nationally recognized certification exam.
The course is offered all day (8:30 am-5:00 pm) on Saturdays and Sundays, over 2½ consecutive weekends, with the 3rd Saturday of the course being the day students take the National Green Infrastructure Certification exam. Participants must complete the 35-hour course in order to take the certification exam.
CSNDC is offering this training under the auspices of the National Green Infrastructure Certification Program (NGICP) and is a NGICP ‘licensed’ professional trainer in the green infrastructure area. The training is geared to a range of constituents, most particularly low-moderate income people, as well as tradespeople (such as contractors, engineers, etc.), who are looking to gain skills in the emerging Green Infrastructure economy.
CSNDC also seeks to assist Program graduates in obtaining jobs in the green infrastructure field.
The course typically costs $700+, but it is now being offered at no cost to eligible low-moderate income community residents. The next class is slated for early 2021. For more information, contact Dave Queeley, Eco-Innovation Director, at david@csndc.com or 617-825-4224 x131, or Danilo Morales, Environmental Justice Specialist, at danilo@csndc.com or 617-825-4224 x150.
