Cleveland State’s Dean of Technology Allan Gentry was a presenter at the 2009 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Annual Conference held in Athens Oh., Oct. 26-28. The theme of the conference was “New Energy, New Jobs, New Opportunity for Appalachia.”
The conference was designed to help local communities grow jobs in the clean energy sector, with a focus on developing energy efficient facilities, renewable energy production, and clean coal technologies. The conference was attended by over 400 community and business leaders from across the 13-state region, including local elected officials, state energy office representatives, economic development professionals, regional planners, real estate developers and builders, educational institutions, ‘green’ entrepreneurs, and lenders and investors.
Mr. Gentry participated on a panel dealing with New Energy Education and Training programs. His presentation focused on CSCC’s Construction Technology Program and activities related to alternative and renewable energy, as well as energy efficient construction.
“In the presentation, I discussed the program model and accomplishments. I stressed the importance of current and relevant curriculum, community partnerships, practical hands-on application in the classroom, and outreach programs to indoctrinate and inform the general public and end users of the green technology products,” said Mr. Gentry. “It was flattering to receive the invitation from ARC to be a panelist and have the opportunity to share what we have done and learned with such a large audience. This has all been possible through the continued support of the school and community.”
For more information on Cleveland State, visit the website at www.clevelandstatecc.edu or call 423 614-8734. For more information on CSCC’s Technology Department, call 423 472-7141, ext. 439.