At a time of unprecedented interest in sustainability and alternative energy among businesses and policy makers, Brandeis International Business School (IBS) hosted a dynamic panel discussion on Friday, September 25, entitled ‘Building Green Skills, The New Economic Stimulus Package.’

The afternoon session was co-sponsored by the Asper Center for Global Entrepreneurship at Brandeis, Executive Minds for Social Innovation, and TiE Boston. It provided participants with suggestions on developing the skills necessary for obtaining 'green jobs' across the globe.

The panelists included: Robert Bry (IBM), Marybeth Campbell (Massachusetts Clean Energy Center), Brian Kuhn (Aeronautica Windpower LLC), Matthew Laudon (Clean Technology & Sustainable Industries Organization) and Efrain Viscarolasaga (Mass High Tech). They represented a cross section of industry, government and entrepreneurs, all of whom are highly involved in green and sustainable business.

Michael Appell, Executive Director for Development and External Affair and Adjunct Professor at Brandeis IBS, moderated the discussion. In welcoming the group,  he referred to the Obama administration’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as an important change in the American business environment which will be “helping Americans to think and train for a new generation of jobs.”

During the discussion, the speakers highlighted energy literacy, marketing and sales knowledge, and ability to communicate clearly as being the necessary tools required for landing a green job. The audience was comprised of Brandeis students and professionals from various industries who engaged the panelists with insightful questions about the future trends and challenges faced in the green energy industry.