Alliedschools top-jobs-ebook

Table of Contents

Intro
Top Jobs for the New Economy Page 2

Health Care Industry
Did you know that health care employment growth is expected
to account for about 22 percent of all wage and salary jobs
added to the economy over the 2008-18 period (Source: BLS)?
Learn more now! Pages 3-10

Real Estate Industry
Even in a changing economy, the housing sector still contributed
nearly $2.1 trillion to the national economy in 2007, accounting
for 15 percent of overall economic activity. (Source: Real Estate
and the Economy) Learn more now! Pages 11-19

Green/Renewable Energy Industry
Did you know the rate of growth in green jobs in the U.S. exceeds
other job sectors by a wide margin (Source: Sol Wired Science)?
Find out about this growing industry now! Pages 20-26

Conclusion
How to Take the First Step Towards Your New Career Page 27

http://www.alliedschools.com/

Top Jobs for the New Economy:
Soaring Industries Offer an Abundance of Career Opportunities!

There’s no time like the present to get in on the ground floor and rise to the
top in one of three industries which, due to increasing demand and activity,
offer ample opportunity for entry into a field with skyrocketing growth.

Specifically, the health care, real estate, and green/solar sectors of America’s
workforce have not only continued to flourish, you could say they are almost
recession-proof since they have not been the least bit affected by fluctuations
in our economic climate. In fact, all three of these fields have been showing
significant expansion and, according to leading industry experts, should go
on to evolve at a rapid pace over the next decade and beyond.

Good news on the job front

While we have all heard and seen those disheartening reports in the media
about employment rates dipping over the past several months, the reality is
that there is actually very good news! If you have been looking to enter the
job market, or perhaps start a new career path, especially one with the
prospect of long-term employment and opportunity for advancement, you
will be delighted to know that these three segments of the economy all show
tremendous promise in every respect.

The overviews that follow should give you enough information to help you
decide if any of these career options might be right for you. Should
something ignite your interest, and perhaps you decide to hone in on one of
these areas, Allied Online Schools offers an array of job-specific programs,
all which allow you to work at your own pace, to get you on your way.

The beauty of Allied’s programs is that, not only are they fully accredited
and designed to give you everything you need to succeed, but they are 100
percent online. This gives you the freedom and flexibility to complete the
coursework according to your own schedule and, if you are currently
employed, to keep your current job in the interim.


10 of the 20 fastest growing occupations are in Health Care (BLS)

The fact is that the demand for health care workers, at all levels of education
and training, will continue to grow by leaps and bounds. As reported by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the health care industry provided more
than 14 million jobs for wage and salary workers in 2008 alone. The BLS
also predicts that through the year 2018, the field will generate more than 3
million new jobs, which is the largest increase of all industries.

The “Energizer Bunny” of Hiring

According to an article posted in July of 2009 by US News and World
Report, “Health care is forecasted to remain a large source of job growth in
the labor market. The long-term trend toward more employment is expected
to continue, with many health care occupations, including medical records,
expected to grow.”

Why does the employment rate in this field continue to surge?

According to the BLS, Here are some key reasons why so many of the
occupations projected to grow the quickest in our economy are in the
healthcare industry.

- In recent years, the number of people in elderly age groups, many
whose medical needs are greater than average, has been climbing at a
more rapid rate than the total population in recent years.

- Due to ongoing advances in medical technology, people are living
longer and the recovery rate for those who are ill or injured is
constantly on the rise.

- Since the percentage of the population in older age groups is currently
growing faster than the total population, employment will rise in
home healthcare, nursing and residential care due to more families
looking for long-term facilities to care for their loved ones.

As a result of the escalating amount of activity in this industry, there will be
a chronic need for workers in all capacities, including administrative support
jobs that are vital to maintaining the smooth operation of medical facilities.


Experience Leads to Advancement

Just as in most vocations, earnings correlate with one’s job responsibilities
as well as the degree of training and/or education he or she has achieved.
While those working in professional occupations such as doctors, surgeons
and registered nurses must have a higher degree of education and training in
a specialized area, most workers who choose to enter the medical field have
positions that actually require less than four years of college education.
Experience, especially when enhanced by additional training, paves the way
for service workers to ultimately move on to higher-level jobs.

Salaries and wages on the upswing

The average earnings of non-supervisory workers in most areas of the health
care industry are reported to be higher, overall, than average for all jobs in
the private sector. In fact, according to findings by the BLS, it’s estimated
that wage and salary employment in the healthcare field will experience an
increase of 22 percent through the year 2018 - a figure that is double that of
all other industries combined!

Where Will I work?

Here is a brief breakdown of the types of work environments where a
healthcare worker might be employed:

- hospitals
- nursing and residential care facilities (i.e. convalescent homes)
- health practitioner offices (i.e. dentists, doctors, chiropractors,
optometrists, podiatrists, dietitians, physical therapists)
- home (a patient’s home for nursing care or as an option for medical
coders and the like)

According to the BLS, the industry is comprised of close to 596,000 medical
establishments, with offices of doctors, dentists and other health
practitioners making up the majority of this total. Interestingly, statistics
show that while hospitals make up a mere 1 percent of the all medical
facilities, they employ some 35 percent of workers industry-wide.


Employment options worth exploring

Among the most popular vocations in the field are medical transcriptionists,
medical coders, medical billers, medical administrative assistants, and
pharmacy technicians.

Medical Transcriptionists are in demand

Since the quality of patient medical records has a direct correlation to the
success of any medical practice, there continues to be a universal calling for
skilled workers to perform this vital role. The transcriptionist listens to
doctor notes (usually through a digital tape recorder or Dictaphone) and
carefully transcribes, or duplicates, this information into a patient’s records.

What qualities do I need to be successful as a Transcriptionist?

- you should be a proficient typist, especially since how much you earn
is dependent on your production
- accuracy is paramount - there is no room for error in something as
important as keeping a patient’s medical records
- familiarity with medical terms
- time management skills (since you will be working with deadlines)

The joy of flexibility

By far, one of the biggest draws of this particular occupation is the
flexibility. While the majority of medical transcriptionists work a typical
40-hour week, pay is largely determined on a worker’s output, either “per
line” or by the hour. As for location, transcriptionists either work in an
office setting or from home. Some are self-employed, contracting their work
out as they choose.

Forecast for job growth is higher than average

According to the BLS, job growth in this field is projected to be “above
average” and is expected to increase by a rate of 14% in the ten-year period
from 2006 to 2016. Most people who enter this field have completed a
medical transcription training program. And while taking a test to obtain
your Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) status isn’t required,


there’s no doubt it can improve both your marketability and income
potential.

Allied’s Medical Transcription Training gives you precisely the
instruction you need to get you well on your way to landing your first job.
And since the courses are approved by American Health Data Institute
(AHDI), you are assured top-notch education with hands-on training that
will not only prepare you to enter the work force, but will give you the
confidence to succeed. The curriculum also equips you with the knowledge
you need to pass the RMT exam, giving you a professional edge in the
industry.

Medical coders play a vital role

This is a position that is absolutely crucial to the financial success of any
medical practice. Moreover, a coder’s efficiency is paramount to helping the
doctor, dentist or other health practitioner be paid the correct amount for
services rendered and that it is received in a timely manner.

Every procedure performed, and each patient diagnosis, needs to be assigned
a code in order for the provider to be paid by an insurance company. With
record growth anticipated in all aspects of the medical industry, there will
most definitely be a heightened demand for skilled medical coders. So, it
follows that since more and more claims are going to be processed, the need
for workers to perform this key job will continue to increase.

What skills are most important for this occupation?

The most successful coders possess the following traits:

- Attention to detail
- Should be comfortable working with computers and various types of
software programs for medical coding and billing

Do I need any special training?

To obtain a position in this field, you need to have a high school diploma
and successfully complete a medical coding program. Just like medical
transcriptionists, coders generally enjoy the same benefit of having
flexibility. As for work environment, there are several options - from being


a part of a medical team in a practitioner’s office, outpatient clinic or
hospital to being on your own as an independent contractor.

What does the job entail?

Basically, the coder’s job is to collect information from the doctor, check
medical charts for accuracy and completion, and analyze data with the help
of computer software. Using official coding guidelines, he or she will
translate patient symptoms, treatments and diagnoses into codes and send the
information to insurance companies so that the doctor can be compensated.

Earn your certification and increase your income potential

According to recent PayScale data, medical coders earn anywhere from
$27,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on training and experience. A
Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) can make as much as $50,000 per year.

Coding jobs can pave the way to further opportunity

Working as a medical coder can be an excellent stepping stone to other,
possibly more lucrative positions in the industry. Allied Schools offers an
online Medical Coding Training that will prepare you for your first job as a
medical coder. Upon successful completion of the coursework, you will
receive an official certificate which will give you a strong advantage in the
job market.

Pharmacy Technician jobs also expected to increase

Another solid career choice in the medical field that is experiencing a steady
upward climb in employment is working as a pharmacy technician. In fact,
according to the BLS, jobs in this sector are projected to grow by a
whopping 32 percent through 2016. One of the reasons for this trend is an
aging population with an increasing dependence on prescribed medications.

Pharmacy techs provide valuable assistance to licensed pharmacists by
receiving and preparing prescription orders. They verify that the
information is correct, retrieve the medication, and get it ready by counting,
pouring, measuring, etc. Next, the technician prepares and affixes labels to
the containers they have selected, then price and file the prescriptions.


Characteristics of successful pharmacy techs

The most important factors in regards to doing the job well are:

- having strong skills spelling and reading
- good customer service skills
- the ability to spend long hours on your feet

Certification enhances job opportunities

Since some employers offer on-the-job training, it’s possible to become a
pharmacy tech without earning a degree or becoming certified. However,
your job opportunities, as well as chances of landing a job, will be better if
you do receive formal training and certification.

Hours and earnings

Work schedules can vary, often including nights, weekends and holidays,
and some facilities operate 24-hours-a-day, such as hospital pharmacies.
While certified techs tend to earn more than those who have not been
certified, the median annual salary, according to the BLS, is close to $30,000
per year. If you become a pharmacy technician, you can enjoy working in
meticulously organized, clean environment.

Open the door to your future with Allied’s comprehensive program

Allied Schools offers a self-paced, online Pharmacy Technician Training
that covers vital topics from drug regulation, public safety and
pharmaceutical terminology to abbreviations, calculations, and job protocol.
The training you receive will prepare you for a successful career in this field
and pave the way for other job opportunities. With further education,
pharmacy techs can work their way up to becoming licensed pharmacists.

Medical Administrative Assistants are an essential part of a practice

We all know that our first impressions, more often than not, are lasting
impressions. It’s no different in the medical field. In fact, the feeling a
prospective or established patient gets when they call or walk in the door,
can actually determine whether or not they will return.


So, since the administrative staff is likely the first encounter a person will
have when entering a medical facility, this is just one of many reasons they
play such an important role in its success and reputation.

The multifaceted role of a medical administrative assistant

In addition to meeting and greeting, the administrative assistant performs a
variety of essential tasks that keep an office running efficiently. And with
the industry expected to provide some 3 million new jobs in the next decade
(BLS), the need for more workers to oversee the daily operations of health
care facilities across the country will, no doubt, continue to skyrocket.

In general, medical administrative assistants are responsible for:

- maintaining patient records
- scheduling appointments
- making and returning calls for physicians
- completing insurance forms
- billing
- coordinating patient care (i.e. arranging for hospital admissions,
scheduled surgeries & lab tests)

Earnings vary with skill level and location

While typically preferred, formal training is not required. However, just as
in all the jobs listed in this section, education and training definitely enhance
a person’s marketability and income potential. The average annual income
for administrative assistants in 2008, as reported by the BLS, ranged from
$23,000 up to $33,000, depending on experience, skill and location.

Allied Schools offers a self-paced, online Medical Administrative
Assistant program that is designed to equip you with all the tools and
confidence you need to succeed working in the front office of a medical
facility. In addition to becoming a highly skilled and respected professional,
who is virtually indispensible in the smooth operations of a doctor’s office,
hospital or outpatient clinic, you will have completed the first step towards
building your medical administrative career in a rewarding and rapidly
growing field.


Continued Boom in Real Estate Industry Means More Jobs

Another field with high career potential and offering tremendous opportunity
for success, even when the nation’s overall employment rates may be
considered unfavorable, is real estate. Despite the climate of uncertainty on
the economic front in recent months, adding to investor frustrations, the
housing market has continued to thrive.

In light of the fact that real estate has always been one of the most solid
investment choices for Americans, it’s really no surprise that the housing
market has been experiencing a steady increase. According to the National
Association of Realtors (NAR), pending home sales, or transactions that
have been signed and awaiting close of escrow, have risen dramatically in all
four major regions of the U.S. This is great news for the nation’s economy
as well as for those looking to start a career in this promising field.

Attractive mortgage rates spur growth in housing market

The positive outlook for real estate is further complemented by favorable
mortgage rates, which have been attracting a growing number of potential
buyers applying for home loans. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the
NAR, recently stated that another encouraging sign is the “improvement in
the availability for jumbo and second-home mortgages.”

Clearly, all of these factors combined signify an ongoing surge in the
housing market, opening the door for more and more jobs. The following
career options all reap the benefits of the rise in sales activity:

Qualified brokers and sales agents in demand

Anyone who has bought or sold a home can likely attest to the fact that it is
by far one of the most important, emotional and financial decisions a person
will ever make in their lifetime. Due to the complexity of real estate
transactions, and to ensure all the details are taken care of in a professional
and timely manner, most buyers and sellers will hire a qualified, reputable
real estate broker or sales agent to guide them through the process, from
signed contract to the successful close of escrow.

While brokers and agents engage in the same type of work, the main
difference is that real estate brokers are licensed to manage their own


business. Agents must work with a broker who, in return, pays the agent a
portion of the commission earned from the agent’s sale of a property. To
best serve their clientele, both must have a comprehensive knowledge of the
real estate market in their geographical area, as well as zoning, tax laws, and
financing options.

What traits are most important in a broker or agent?

- Professional demeanor
- Pleasant personality
- Neat appearance
- Detail-oriented
- Prompt and effective communication skills
- Integrity and trustworthiness
- Ability to negotiate
- Enthusiasm for the job
- Knowledge of the local marketplace

A person who possesses all of these characteristics is likely to be successful
in helping buyers and sellers attain positive results. By meeting client needs,
you will inevitably gain a favorable reputation in the brokerage community
which, in turn, means an increase in referral and repeat business.

What does an agent’s job entail?

When working with sellers, brokers and agents obtain listing agreements by
owners to list their properties for sale. To determine a “competitive market
price,” they will compare the listed property with similar properties that
have recently sold in the area. The agent who sells the property to a buyer
and the agent who represented the seller each receive a portion of the
commission upon the close of escrow. Therefore, an agent who ends up
selling their own listing to a buyer, representing both sides of the
transaction, can increase or double their sales commission.

In representing buyers, it’s imperative to meet with them to find out
precisely what they are looking for in a home as well as their specific needs
and what they can afford, or are willing, to spend. Based on the information
given, the agent or broker will compile a list of properties listed for sale that
meet the client’s specifications. For instance, if a family has young


children, they will likely want to be near good schools and prefer a certain
type of floor plan that is convenient for their lifestyle.

Brokers and agents make sure all conditions are met

Once there is a signed contract, and the sale enters the escrow period, the
broker or agent must make sure all of the terms of the contract are met, such
as inspections and agreed upon repairs, before the specified closing date. As
environmental awareness has continued to increase in recent years, real
estate professionals are also addressing certain health-related issues such as
potentially hazardous lead paint and asbestos.

Modern technology allows increased flexibility

While most agents focus mainly on residential sales, a smaller number
specialize in other types, such as commercial and industrial. Brokers and
agents often exceed a standard 40-hour work week due to the nature of the
business. Even though they have the freedom to set their own schedules,
they often work weekends, evenings, and even holidays to accommodate
their clients’ needs. However, with the latest advances in
telecommunications and technology, agents and brokers are able to conduct
much of their business from home.

What are the prerequisites for a job in real estate sales?

Real estate agents and brokers must be licensed by the states they work in.
Also, prospective sales agents must be at least 18 years of age with a high
school diploma, and are required to pass a written test. (To become a
licensed broker, you must already be a licensed real estate salesperson.) The
exam, which is more extensive for attaining a broker’s license, includes
questions regarding basic transactions and laws affecting the industry.
According to the BLS, employment for brokers and agents is expected to
rise approximately 14 percent for the 10-year period ending in 2018, which
is faster than average.

A profitable industry for those who succeed

In this business, those who are well-trained, ambitious and well-connected in
their communities tend to be most successful. Median annual wages,
including commissions, of salaried real estate agents were over $40,000 in


2008, with the top 10 percent earning over $100,000. Keep in mind that
sales prices, and thus commission, depend on the value of a property, which
can vary tremendously depending on location.

If this sounds like the right path for you, Allied Real Estate School, which is
100 percent online just like all of their programs, makes sure you have all
the training you need to begin or advance in your exciting career in real
estate. Known for their high pass rate for state exams, Allied offers
industry-leading courses, live student support, and even provides a 110%
Money Back Promise with some courses.

Enjoy a lasting career as a Property Manager

According to the BLS, employment in this field is forecasted to grow by 15
percent through 2016. And since there will always be a need for qualified
professionals to manage and maintain properties for investors who own
them, this is another great option for those looking to enter the industry.

Basically, professional property managers maintain and increase the value of
income-producing real estate such as apartment buildings and commercial
properties by handling all the details and keeping day-to-day operations
running smooth.

Typically, a property manager handles all of the financial details. This
would include:

- collecting rent from tenants
- making sure mortgages, taxes, repair bills and such are paid on time
- negotiating contracts for, and monitoring, outside services such as:
o cleaning
o landscaping
o security
o trash removal

Property managers also:

- investigate and help resolve tenant complaints
- assist in filling vacancies
- must know and comply with pertinent legislations, such as the
Americans with Disabilities Act and local fair housing laws


What does an employer look for in hiring a property manager?

Employers tend to have a hiring preference for candidates with a solid
education, especially for offsite management positions that involve finances
and contract management. For a position as an onsite manager, it’s helpful
to have some real estate experience since you will likely be showing
apartments or office space to prospective tenants.

If you have an interest in pursuing a job in this increasingly active field, you
might want to check into Allied’s Property Management Course, which
will not only increase your income potential and job security, but will also
prepare you to start your own business. According to the BLS, the median
salary for property managers can exceed $95,000 annually.

Contractors benefit from uptick in new home sales and renovations

Favorable interest rates, coupled with an influx of good news about the state
of our economy, means that more and more people will not only be buying
homes, but will also be hiring contractors at an increasing rate to add on or
make improvements to their properties.

In fact, as reported on the front page of the Los Angeles Times in May 2010,
new homes jumped a whopping 27 percent in March from the month prior,
nationwide, and 24 percent compared with March of 2009.

Meeting the demands of a growing population

Industry experts predict that home construction and renovation will surge
over the next decade to meet the demands of a growing population,
especially with the oldest children of the “baby boomers” starting to enter
the marketplace. To keep up with this growth, there will be a greater need
for licensed professionals to provide quality contracting services.

Contractors oversee projects from inception to completion

In a nutshell, the contractor coordinates and manages all work performed on
a property, making sure the quality, budget and timelines are all on track.
As a contractor, you would be responsible for:


- setting up a contract agreement with the client which defines the terms
of the project (i.e. budget and plans)
- supplying the necessary materials and equipment needed, as well as
securing services that are necessary for construction
- subcontracting workers or companies, if needed, for specialized jobs

An attractive pay scale

The median salary for a certified construction contractor was recently
estimated to exceed $60,000 while the average hourly rate is between $25
and $30. As with most jobs, the more training and experience a person
acquires, the better his or her opportunities for advancement and increased
income.

Obtain your contractor license and start building a solid reputation

Since most states require a license to operate a contracting business, Allied
Schools’ Contractor License Course is pleased to offer comprehensive
packages that teach all the important concepts you need to pass the exam and
establish yourself as a licensed professional. You can be your own boss and
enjoy flexible hours. Like all of Allied’s programs, you can study when and
where you choose, which allows you to keep your current job while
improving your status in the job market.

Home Inspectors play an integral part in the sales process

Since home inspection has become a routine part of a sales transaction, and
activity continues to surge across the country, there will inevitably be an
increase in the need for qualified professionals to fill this role. Inspectors
are usually hired by potential buyers to assess the condition of a property
either before making an offer to buy, or as a contingency to a sales contract.

What exactly does an inspector do?

As a home inspector, you will perform a thorough physical inspection the
structure and compile an informative, accurate report based on your
findings. Key components of the job consist of:


- evaluating all systems and components (i.e. the foundation, floors,
windows, garage doors, chimney, heating and A/C systems, and
piping)
- making note of any existing or potential problems
- giving recommendations on how to fix any trouble areas
- checking for possible building code violations

Tremendous job growth in the forecast

Inspectors are predicted to experience “faster than average” employment
growth, according to the BLS. The median annual wages of wage and salary
construction and building inspectors were close to $52,000 in 2008, with the
highest 10 percent earning more than $78,000.

Be sure you choose an accredited school to complete your training

While training requirements vary from state to state, employers generally
choose to hire applicants with formal training and experience. Also, even if
not required, certification can greatly enhance your chances for employment.
Due to the nature of the job, it is absolutely imperative to stay current with
building codes, construction practices, and technical developments.

Allied’s Home Inspector Training, which is unique in that it’s designed by
experienced professional inspectors, gives you a solid foundation on which
to build your career. The hands-on training and materials you receive,
including DVDs of actual inspections, will enable you to inspect a home,
from start to finish.

Home Appraisers evaluate a property’s worth

Since home appraisers play an important role in the purchase and sale of
properties, this is yet another career choice that offers ample opportunity in
accord with the positive light shining on the real estate sector. Appraisers
generally must be licensed, although requirements vary depending on the
state.

Your job as an appraiser is to provide an objective, documented opinion of a
property’s real estate market value. For example, a mortgage lender may
hire you for an appraisal to ensure that a property is capable of recovering
the loan value in case the buyer defaults on his or her payments.


Appraisers work in familiar territory since they need to be well aware of any
concerns, environmental or otherwise, that may have an impact on value. In
addition to noting qualities unique to the structure and the adjacent vicinity,
such as a busy street or airport, the appraiser may opt to take photos to
capture some of the features. It’s imperative to keep a meticulous record of
your findings, as well as the methods you use to assess the property’s worth.

The best appraisers are:

- detail-oriented, methodical, and organized
- well-versed in and comfortable with pertinent subject areas (i.e. math,
physics, building codes, construction methods and materials, real
estate law, and local regulations)
- versatile in applying appraisal principles to different styles, sizes,
amenities and other distinct characteristics of a property

Higher credentials = higher earnings

While privately employed appraisers typically work a standard 40-hour
week, those who are self-employed tend to put in more hours, including
using their evenings and weekends to write reports. Advancement, like so
many other occupations, comes with experience. Put simply, the higher
one’s level of license or designation, the more he or she can charge for
services.

In May of 2008, the median annual wages of home appraisers were over
$47,000, with the highest 10 percent taking in close to $90,000 per year.
Earnings for independent appraisers can fluctuate quite a bit due to the fact
that they are paid per job.

If this type of work stirs your interest, be sure to take a look at Allied’s Real
Estate Appraisal Course, which thoroughly prepares you for the state
licensing exam. Not only will you attain a solid background and fulfill all of
the educational requirements, you will acquire the most recent tools of the
trade, which in turn, will increase your chances of enjoying a successful and
profitable career.


Careers Abound in the Ever-Expanding Green/Solar Industry

Last, but certainly not least, is the third of three rapidly growing sectors of
our nation’s workforce – the green/solar industry. Year after year, an
increasing number of us are making a conscious effort to live a more
“green,” energy-efficient lifestyle… not only by recycling, buying “organic”
and taking reusable bags to the store, but also by increasing our use of
telecommunications, energy efficient light bulbs, massive transit, hybrid cars
and so on.

Isn’t it wonderful to know that you can earn a living while, at the same
time, making a positive contribution to the well-being of our planet?

If working in this emerging field sparks your interest, this is certainly an
ideal time to start training for an “earth-friendly” career of your choice. The
fact is, that as consumer awareness grows, so is the employment rate in
environmentally-friendly occupations. There’s a wide range of rewarding
job opportunities, all geared towards improving the overall health of the
environment and, consequently, our quality of life.

Renewable sources are becoming a larger part of our energy production

In today’s increasingly “green economy,” electricity generated from
renewable sources, such as the sun and the wind, is one of the most rapidly
growing segments of the electric power industry. In fact, according to a
report by the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory at the
University of California at Berkeley, renewable energy “creates more jobs
per kilowatt hour than traditional energy sources such as coal and natural
gas.”

State and local government increasing incentives for “going solar”

As an example, one occupation that is becoming increasingly prominent,
especially in California where there are enticing incentives for consumers to
use renewable energy, is solar panel, or photovoltaic (PV), installation. Like
any other profession, workers with specialty licensing or other qualifications
typically earn the most. According to analysts, depending on location, crew
leaders generally take home $20-$25 per hour.


Gratification of making a positive impact on our planet

PV installer Rebekah Hren, who installs solar panels on rooftops and other
sunny locations to convert the sun’s power into electricity, shares an outlook
on her job that is common among many of her associates who say that it’s
not just about earning a paycheck. “What I really love,” explains Hren, “is
installing a system and knowing that it will be creating clean energy for 25
years. It’s exciting to be making a difference.”

“Green building” is permeating the housing industry

The rising trend in people wanting to create environmentally-conscious
homes and buildings is also creating a bulk of new jobs. Especially with
new government incentives, people have been implementing more eco-
friendly designs and choosing materials that increase energy efficiency and
minimize potential hazards to our health and environment.

As the industry grows, so does the job market

With our economy becoming progressively “green,” there are seven main
areas that will undoubtedly be in need of additional people to work in a
variety of capacities, including production, installation, and sales:

- solar
- wind
- biofuels
- recycling
- energy efficiency
- water conservation
- green building
.
Within these categories, there are many options. From educating others on
the benefits of renewable energy sources to physical occupations such as
installing photovoltaic (PV) solar panels or weatherizing/retrofitting homes
to make them more energy efficient, you are sure to find your niche in this
rapidly evolving sector.


How do I get started?

Allied Schools is renowned for, among other comprehensive programs, their
green and solar training courses that are specially designed to give you a
solid foundation from which to grow your career. Additionally, many
courses prepare you to sit for certification exams if you choose to do so.

Solar education leads to opportunities in growing worldwide market

Allied’s Business of Solar course, the first of three in this specialty area,
gives you a thorough introduction to the industry and equips you with all the
basic fundamentals you need to get started - from establishing your own
solar business to developing the most effective sales techniques.

The second course in the series, Introduction to Photovoltaic Systems, is
an entry-level installers program. Allied prepares you to successfully pass
your PV Entry Level Exam which qualifies you to work as a PV
Installation Assistant or in another entry level position.

Want to take your education to the next level? If so, you can proceed with
the Advanced Principles of Photovoltaic Systems Installation, which
satisfies the requirements for board-recognized training to sit for the North
American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) PV
Certification exam.

Do I need to be certified to work as an installer?

Certification is not mandatory, however, it certainly sends a message to a
potential boss that you take your job seriously and have that extra level of
expertise, which also enhances your employment opportunities.

Besides passing the written exam, what is required for certification?

You must:

- be at least 18 years of age
- meet prerequisites for experience and/or education
- sign a “code of ethics and standards of practice”


Staggering statistics in renewable energy field

Here is some more good news for those of you considering a job in a
profession that is not only making a positive impact on our lives as well as
future generations, but is only going to continue to flourish in coming years:

- 29 states have already adopted renewable energy goals
- The renewable energy industry grew more than three times as fast
as our entire United States economy in 2007
- By 2012, our country is expected to double its supply of renewable
energy
(Source: The Pew Charitable Trust)

Green building expected to dominate construction industry

In light of a projection by McGraw Hill Construction, specifically that our
green building market is likely to double by the year 2013, it’s no wonder
that we are seeing a rapid expansion in college-level and vocational green
programs. There are literally millions of new green jobs on the horizon!

A course in green (or sustainable) building, such as is offered by Allied
Schools, will prepare you for professional vocations such as these:

- project manager
- green building planner
- environmental specialist
- sales manager

In addition to Introduction to Green Building, Allied offers a subsequent
course in Green Building Practices, which upon completion enables you to
make educated decisions regarding a structure’s eco-friendly design,
construction, and maintenance. For instance, you will know how to pick the
best sustainable materials for a specific project. This coursework is for you
if you are looking to earn certification as a LEED (Leadership in Energy
and Environmental Design) Green Associate, or if you already hold this
status and want to further supplement your training.


Wanted - home energy survey professionals

Considering that the vast majority of homeowners (91.8 percent) would like
to cut the costs of their energy bills by increasing their home’s energy
efficiency, and residential structures are reported to be our largest energy
consumer, there continues to be an escalating demand for home energy
survey professionals.

Certified professionals are trained to use an approved rating system to
determine a home’s energy efficiency. He or she may also make suggestions
on how the homeowner can improve this rating. For example, it’s estimated
that the average homeowner can save up to 30 percent on heating and
cooling bills by installing proper insulation and air sealing techniques.

The surveyor’s report is based on such criteria as:

- overall condition of the home
- insulation
- approximate energy use
- age of equipment
- regional norms and climate

Certified survey professionals are invaluable in helping homeowners access
government-mandated benefits for having an energy-efficient home, which
means that consumption is reduced by 20 percent following renovations.

Workers needed to implement energy-saving, cost-effective systems

Weatherization and retrofitting professionals are specially trained in making
a home or other structure more energy efficient. By employing strategic
conservation techniques, families not only enjoy lower energy bills, but also
an improved, often more healthy, quality of life.

Upon completion of Allied’s online Business of Weatherization and
Retrofitting program, you will be prepared to take the RESNET Home
Energy Survey Professional Certification exam and join others in a up-and-
coming field with an ongoing demand for trained workers.


Opportunity knocks!

The “green collar” industry is booming along with an environmentally-
conscious population that wants to trim their budgets with more efficient,
cleaner energy. Whichever path you choose, Allied Schools will give you
the training necessary to launch your career. In the solar sector alone, it’s
predicted that some 20 million people could be employed over the next
decade.

As the green movement continues to spread like wildfire throughout our
country, it is inevitable that more and more of us will be seeking the help of
trained professionals to assist us in attaining the financial and environmental
benefits of having energy efficient homes.


How to Take the First Step Towards Your New Career

Ready to take action? Today's economy provides an abundance of
opportunities to grow your career in new and exciting ways. Whether you
want to enter the health care industry, become a solar professional or build
your real estate business, you can take the steps to distinguish yourself in
today's workplace. Plus, with convenient online learning, you can build your
skill level at your own pace, according to your schedule.

Stake your claim in today's hot careers! Contact Allied Schools at (888) 501-
7686 or visit www.alliedschools.com to request complimentary information.
A solid foundation in a career of the new economy may be the fresh start
you're looking for.

Allied eBook Disclaimer: Our eBooks are designed to provide information about the subject matter covered. They are
sold with the understanding that the authors and the publisher are not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other
professional services. If legal advice or other professional assistance is required, the services of a competent
professional person should be sought. Every effort has been made to make our eBooks as complete and accurate as
possible. However, there may be mistakes both typographical and in content. Therefore, the texts should be used only
as general guides and not as the ultimate sources of the subject matters covered. The authors and the publisher shall
have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damage caused or alleged to
be caused directly or indirectly by the information covered in the eBooks.


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