Green careers are growing. Knowledge of sustainable technologies and building techniques is already in demand, and recent studies offer evidence that the trajectory will continue upward.

Whether your expertise is in renewable energy or you want to work for an architecture, engineering or construction firm that supports green building, the prospects are bright for success in the job market.

Worldwide anticipation of a greener future

In the 2018 World Green Building Trends report, almost half of global survey respondents said they expect to construct more than 60 percent of their projects as green buildings by 2021. Two-thirds of respondents also reported that using a rating system like LEED allowed them to create better-performing buildings.
Over 10 million people worldwide work in renewable energy jobs, according to the Renewable Energy and Jobs Annual Review 2018. The photovoltaic industry alone grew by almost 9% in 2017.

Green economic growth in the United States

A survey of business professionals by the National Environmental Education Foundation determined that 65% of those businesses value environmental and sustainability knowledge in job candidates. Furthermore, 78% believe that the value of such knowledge will only increase in importance as a hiring factor.
In the U.S., more than 3 million people are employed in the energy efficiency sector, according to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute.
Continued growth is projected for green jobs by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects, especially for photovoltaic and wind turbine technicians (as of 2018, the two roles were projected to grow 105% and 96%, respectively, by 2026).
The construction sector in general is becoming a buyer's market for those starting out; in Maryland, according to a recent article in Construction Executive, nearly 100% of Montgomery College construction management students receive job offers before graduation. In Ohio, salaries in construction can start as high as $62,000.

Learn how USGBC can help your career grow. Explore our green career resources for students, emerging professionals, teachers and experienced green building specialists.

Discover the latest LEED updates at Greenbuild

One of the best ways to grow your green knowledge is through the wealth of learning opportunities available at Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. In Atlanta, Georgia, from November 19–22, dig into the details of LEED v4.1, zero waste, materials and many other current topics in sustainability. Choose among 200+ sessions from 13 tracks in our conference program.

In addition, Education on the Expo Floor offers interactive discussion areas, education labs, a special learning center for architects, and sessions on materials and product transparency.

Make connections at Greenbuild

Seize the many chances at Greenbuild to exchange ideas with colleagues and potential employers. Check out the Networking Reception in the Expo Hall at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 19, or one of the two Happy Hour in the Hall events on on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 5 p.m., or Thursday, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m.

Meet with other Women in Green at the luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 12:30 p.m. Last, join in the Greenbuild Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 21 from 6–10 p.m.

Register for Greenbuild

Green skills are changing the workforce