Area students to learn green technology

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - In the future, more electricity will be powered by the sun. A local program teaches future electricians how to work with solar power.

America's future workforce is getting a boost in Buffalo when it comes to "going green."

Green Career Institute president Duncan Cleminshaw said, "The intention is to put the tools in their hand to make them valuable to an employer on day one."

Cleminshaw's California based company announced on Thursday they have teamed up with Buffalo Public Schools and TM Montante in Tonawanda to train students in solar energy technology. Beginning in the fall, about 24 seniors already enrolled in McKinley High School's electrical program will be offered a 40 hour certification program in solar design and installation.

McKinley High teacher John Serra said, "This will be in addition to our residential commercial wiring program. It's going to be teaching the students how to install photo voltaic systems, keep them up in green technology, we're also going to incorporate it with wind technology."

All of those special skills they learn will make these students more employable as companies look to hire specialists to help them become more environmentally-friendly. The focus on clean energy is not only growing in western New York, but across the country.