• Certain areas of the green economy are hopping! Companies in these industries can't find enough employees to meet their demand. Think solar and wind power (especially in states that offer financial incentives for homeowners and commercial sites). Consider sustainable building as a whole, especially retrofitting outfits and companies that provide real-time tracking of energy usage.

• The government has already committed funds to create green economy training programs. The Green Jobs Act (H.R. 2847) was passed last August and authorizes up to $125 million in funding to establish national and state job training programs to help address job shortages that are impairing growth in green industries, such as energy efficient buildings and construction, renewable electric power, energy efficient vehicles, and biofuels development. Although these programs are specifically for green collar jobs, professional job opportunities will grow out of this as well. Training, hiring, and managing the new workforce will require people with professional skills. As a more robust, well-trained workforce is in place, more sales and marketing specialists will be needed to keep the growth going.

• Other industries are just about ready to pop. Venture capital investments show a lot of movement in the industries I've already cited above (solar, wind, energy efficiency), as well as the cleantech industries such as electric/hybrid cars, hydrogen and fuel cells, and advanced batteries. Although there's no surefire way to predict how future trends will unfold, the venture capital investors are banking on some fairly impressive growth in these industries. Depending on your target career, you may need to bide your time while the industry of your choice matures to a point where it will be ready to hire you.

Some other sectors to watch include:

• Greener computing where computer equipment is more energy efficient, uses fewer toxins, and can be more easily reused at the end of its life.
• Large multi-national companies like Clorox are adding green beauty and cleaning lines to their offerings by buying established green companies.
• Local food production and distribution is also showing signs of growth, above and beyond even organic foods.

 

(If you aren't a scientist, don't be alarmed. As these industries take off, companies will be hiring a wide array of employees to bring their products and technologies to market.) 

 

• This is a great time to explore, investigate, and decide on your target green career…all without leaving the security of your current job. Identifying your green niche, exploring your options, and preparing for a new career may take time. Why not begin now?

• As more and more people see the opportunity for green jobs, the competition is going to pick up. Starting your quest now will put you at the front of the line for a green job.

• One of the best ways to increase your chances of getting a green job is to become active in your community. Volunteer with a non-profit or community group to make a green impact locally. The experience you gain and the network you build will be invaluable when you are ready to activate your job search.

• If going back to school is part of your plan to plug into the green economy, now might be a great time to fulfill that goal. Investing in yourself and your future will have a great return as long as you have done your homework and know that the courses, certificate, or degree are indeed going to position you well for the green job you want.

• As you immerse yourself in your target industry or field and as you become active in your local community you will be surrounded by people who are excited about the green economy. Being part of a community of like-minded people who share your values and goals is a profound gift. Suddenly you are not alone, you are part of a greater whole that is motivating, inspiring, and demonstrating that change really can happen. The hope and confidence you gain will allow you to exude more confidence and clarity when you begin networking and interviewing for your green career.