SEE Careers: Energy Manager
Why are organizations looking to hire energy managers?
Readily available water and energy means we have the ability and time to accomplish tasks more easily than ever before. However, as convenient as this is, the waste created through daily activities can quickly get out of hand if not managed properly. Unnecessary energy waste has proven to be expensive and damaging to the environment, which can be off putting to clients. Additionally, shifting views surrounding sustainability and the financial savings that come with energy efficiency have encouraged small businesses and large corporations alike to be more responsible with their resources. Everything from adjusting the AC to reducing the energy used after hours can save companies thousands of dollars each year. Energy management gives organizations an advantage by implementing conservation and efficiency strategies to reduce waste as much as possible.
What does an energy manager do?
An energy manager is tasked with leading a business or organization to a more sustainable future by identifying waste and implementing conservation programs and strategies. They are experts in getting tasks done and making a business run as energy efficiently as possible. In this position, your daily goal will be to solve the problems associated with waste and energy efficiency to optimize the institution or business's performance. By breaking down and tracking the current utility spend and use, you will identify the trouble points where waste accumulates and create a strategy to fix or minimize the problems.
What type of job growth does energy management offer?
Learning on the job is a huge part of the gig. If you work hard, the possibilities are abundant once you get some experience under your belt. The Texas Energy Managers Association (TEMA) Chief Operating Officer Ashley Williams started on her journey with a Bachelor of Architecture, followed by a Masters of Regional and Community Planning from Kansas State University, and a Doctorate of Business Administration from Walden University. She explained in an interview;
"Energy management is a fantastic career because of the variety of ways it can be applied to different jobs. You can manage facilities from the perspective of an architect or engineer, open a consulting firm providing guidance to multiple organizations, or efficiently monitor and run automation systems. As long as you have the know-how, you can make your energy career path your own and change directions as you see fit."
In the end, all buildings need energy to fulfill their function. No matter the type of institution, organizing the resources available and making smart energy decisions and investments will always be in demand.
How to become an energy manager?
There are two primary routes one can take when pursuing a career as an energy manager. You may opt for a bachelor's degree in something like engineering, architecture, or building and construction. Alternatively, you can go the trade route and become a licensed HVAC technician or electrician or focus on the contractor side of the industry. Many associate degrees and certifications are also available to learn about energy management. Ultimately, employers will look to see if you have the experience and technical knowledge necessary to complete the required tasks. As long as your background is relevant to the job description, your education will not be factored in too heavily.
If you are interested in learning about energy resources and the amazing career opportunities available in the energy sector, visit Smart Energy Education to learn more! And don't forget to follow the Smart Energy Education Facebook page for updates on all our projects, scholarship opportunities, blog posts and more!
