Sustainability Technologies

You care about finding environmentally-responsible methods in engineering and construction. You are passionate about cutting-edge technologies and renewable energy systems that are changing these fields; you are also skilled in analyzing data and proposing solutions. You also prioritize ethics and conservation. Earn an Associate of Applied Science in Sustainability Technologies or a sustainability certificate from Central Piedmont.

What You Will Learn

You will examine the best practices to reduce environmental impact in engineering and construction. Technical training includes studies in energy, environmentalism, and engineering, as well as the economic and social impact of each of these. You will engage in math, biology, ecology, sustainability, CAD, GIS, and alternative energy solutions. You will operate software and tools to measure sustainability standings for companies, analyze landscapes, develop energy reduction strategies, and design both indoor and outdoor efficiency models. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of the three competing interest in sustainability; “people, prosperity, and planet”
  • analyze energy usage, demand and conservation for a building envelope, devise a strategy for energy reduction, and select appropriate alternative or renewable energy systems for implementation
  • evaluate an entity’s current sustainability standing and recommend changes needed for improvement
  • operate software and hardware for designing and modeling alternative/renewable energy systems

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers, including environmental and alternative energy consulting, construction management, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, and manufacturing.

Apply now

Why Choose Central Piedmont

As you approach program completion, you will complete a capstone project. You will engage in research and apply all of your knowledge to a sustainability problem and design a solution that minimizes the impact on the environment. This final project will be helpful to you as you start looking for jobs in sustainability.

You will also have the opportunity to participate in the Environment and Recreation through Habitats (EARTH) student organization.

Real World Education

At Central Piedmont, your education goes beyond what you learn in class. We offer numerous opportunities for you to enhance your learning — and to make friends, network, and pursue your passions — through clubs and organizations, sports, events and activities, leadership opportunities, job experience, volunteer experiences, visual and performing arts, and even international experiences.

Sustainability Careers and Average Salaries

Graduates of the sustainability technologies program should qualify for numerous positions within the construction management, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, and alternative energy industries. Employment opportunities include, but are not limited to, environmental engineering technicians, precision instrument and equipment repairers, construction management, and alternative energy specialists. Visit Central Piedmont’s Career Coach for detailed sustainability technologies career opportunities, salary information, and job openings.

Career Coach
I’ve always had a love and respect for nature, so after seeing how wasteful the entertainment industry could be, I chose to pursue a career in sustainability. This field truly gives me the opportunity to do meaningful work. Donald Harris '19 Read Donald's story

The Details