The Green Buildings market will surge forward as building design, professionals, corporations, contractors and real estate professionals upgrade older buildings over next 10 years. To reach this goal, it will be essential for these professionals to have the knowledge and skills needed to deliver successful projects. Here are a few things we see that will be important in the coming years.

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM)/ 3D Computer Aided Design: BIM allows buildings to be designed in 3D environments where professionals and owners can “tour” the building and visualize the construction of building at different levels before construction starts. BIM, if used properly, allow design professionals and owners to choose building materials; resolve construction issues and avert cost overruns. Professionals who have “hands on” experience with BIM will be in demand.
2. Estimating/Scheduling:In these post recession times, man hours and materials are expensive commodities. Estimating and scheduling professionals who understand how to negotiate prices, procure the sustainable and recycled materials and resolve scheduling issues will be in high demand. (See our article on the 7 Hottest Certifications For 2010 ).
3. Energy/Facility Management: The true value of a green building is in how it operates and saves resources. Energy and Facility managers will be tasked with making sure green buildings operate within LEED standards by managing billing rates, building automation systems, construction, maintenance and resource consumption. The federal government has already start hiring energy managers for military facilities. (See our article 27 Areas of Potential Job Growth).
4. Construction Management: Construction Management is a critical component of any green building project. Construction managers must be adept at managing employees, efficiently using  resources and troubleshooting construction issues while maintaining profitability.
5. Building Systems Maintenance: Many green buildings have advanced computerized automation systems, climate control and on-site power generation.In order to repair these systems, Facility Managers and Maintenance professionals will have to be skilled craftpeople as well as adept information technologists. Those who can fix power generators, HVAC, water purification systems and do routine maintenance who see ample opportunities in the coming years.

These are some the knowledge areas that green building professionals will need for future job opportunities. Thanks for reading

Further Reading

•  Top 17 Key Job Skills Employers Want In 2012
• 4 Ways Job Seekers Can “Skill Up” In the Post Recession Economy
• 5 Critical Skills Needed to Get a Science, Technology, Engineering & Math Job In America

• QA Graphics to Exhibit at AHR EXPO Booth 3729 (prweb.com)