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Even with the recession, there's no question the city is still a banking center. But there is another section of our economy, the energy business, that is receiving more and more attention.
"We have over 200 companies and firms and organizations that support the energy sector," said Chad Ray of Central Piedmont Community College.
Ray will take part in the "Energy Careers for a Bright Future" event at CPCC's Harris Campus Conference Center on Tuesday. The workshop, which will focus on helping people in career transition learn about energy-related jobs, is sponsored by the Charlotte Regional Partnership's "Charlotte USA - The New Energy Capital" initiative.
"It is just a really good opportunity for the community to get information about energy opportunities, as well as opportunities to see how their skills match up with the energy sector," said Ray, dean of the school of science technology, engineering, math and sustainability.
From machinists to engineering technicians to maintenance workers, Ray says the opportunities are many.
"We're almost doubling our capacity over the next two to three years," added Bryan Moorehead, vice president of operations at Charlotte-based Celgard. The company makes separators for lithium-ion batteries and was recently visited by President Barack Obama. Celgard is expanding its facility off Choate Circle and plans to build a second location in Concord. "We're going to be adding over 200 jobs over the next four years," he said.
Moorehead will take part in a roundtable discussion at the workshop. He hopes to offer real life advice to attendees. "I hope they walk away with what are the career opportunities - what skill sets are required, where are potential job growth opportunities."
He said he is excited about what the next few years hold. "With the diversity we have in electric gas, research and development, nuclear and our educational resources, the growth for this region could be significant," he added.
To attend "Energy Careers for a Bright Future," you need to register. There is a $25 registration fee that includes lunch. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call CPCC at 704-3300-2722 or go to www.cpcc.edu/ energy/event . Keep in mind: This is not a job fair, so resumes won't be accepted.
