Free Trainings in Des Moines Qualify Building Professionals for Energy Efficiency Projects

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Center on Sustainable Communities' statewide education program supports community energy saving goals by improving performance of existing buildings and homes.

Des Moines, IA (September 20, 2012) - Des Moines nonprofit Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is presenting its free statewide Energy Efficiency Rehab Training at the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center in downtown Des Moines on October 12-13 and November 9-10. The two-part curriculum is the state's most comprehensive renovation training focusing on sustainable building techniques and energy efficiency. 

 

COSC’s workshop series supports community energy-saving goals by qualifying contractors and other building professionals for energy efficient home remodeling and commercial retrofit projects. Attendees who attain a certificate of completion will be placed on a preferred vendor list promoted across Iowa.

A Valuable Tool for Building Professionals, Businesses and Homeowners

COSC's Energy Efficiency Rehab Training educates home and business owners on how to access resources, incentives and financing options during the information-rich presentation that empowers decision-making processes and an owner's ability to find a capable contractor. Learn planning objectives, strategies, product reviews and red flags to look for that will significantly impact priorities, property values, pocketbooks, human health, productivity and maintenance.

The training addresses the complexity that renovations and retrofit projects present. Building professionals will gain practical knowledge of green building's whole-systems approach, providing an opportunity to advance their expertise, improve competitive edge and ability to meet the growing demand for energy efficient buildings and homes. Contractors, builders, city officials, designers, realtors, lenders and assessors will learn to effectively improve a building's performance as consumers become more aware of the energy-saving, economical, social and environmental benefits of sustainable practices.

Training topics covered include assessment, design and planning; historic preservation considerations; foundations, infiltration and insulation; heating and cooling; plumbing and electrical; and interior finishes.

Training Schedule Details and Registration

Part 1 of COSC's Energy Efficiency Rehab Training covers the curriculum's learning modules 1-7 and takes place on Friday, October 12 from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Part 2 covers learning modules 8-14 on Friday, November 9 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The workshops will take place at the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center (JMPEC), Room 201,
1200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309.

Complimentary dinners are provided at each Friday session, and refreshments for each Saturday session. Attendees are encouraged to bring a brown bag lunch or patronize a local eatery during the designated lunch break on Saturday. Registration for this free training is required. Details and registration information is available through COSC at www.icosc.com, info@icosc.com or 515-277-6222.

COSC's free training is a result of a collaborative partnership led by Iowa Central Community College through a State of Iowa Energy Sector Partnership grant to increase job skills and effectively address the aging of Iowa's inventory of existing homes and commercial buildings. Energy use in homes, businesses and communities can be greatly reduced through sustainable renovation best practices, providing lasting benefits to health, pocketbooks and the environment.

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Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is a non-profit membership organization founded in 2005 that connects individuals, businesses and communities to resources and education that empower them to achieve their sustainable priorities. As a result, Iowans make everyday decisions that ensure the well being of future generations. Your partnership supports a greater quality of life for all Iowans. More information on COSC's programs, resources and opportunities can be found at www.icosc.com and www.cosc-evergreen.org.