University Park, Pa. -- As energy companies, agribusinesses, government agencies and environmental groups scramble to promote and develop alternative fuel sources, demand is growing for the people who will fill positions in this burgeoning energy workforce. And the need for trained and educated personnel will cross a wide spectrum of fields, according to a biofuels expert in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences.
"Alternative energy is generating tremendous growth opportunities in terms of careers," says Tom Richard, director of Penn State's Biomass Energy Center. "Students pursuing an education in a variety of scientific and business-related specialties can position themselves to be at the forefront of these new technologies."
Tensions in the Middle East and other oil-producing regions, concerns about greenhouse gases and their effects on global climate change, and high prices for gasoline and home-heating fuel have generated momentum in the quest for clean, renewable and affordable energy. Some alternative sources, such as wind power and corn-derived ethanol, are here today. But others likely will take decades to develop and perfect -- requiring the next generation of trained scientists.
"For instance, as we study new oilseeds for biodiesel or look to generate ethanol from cellulosic sources -- such as trees and switchgrass -- we'll need expertise in agronomy, silviculture and plant sciences to grow these biofuel feedstocks," says Richard, an associate professor of agricultural and biological engineering. "Rapid advances in the life sciences are creating demand for microbiologists and biochemists to develop the new enzymes and industrial organisms to transform these crops into ethanol, hydrogen and other transportation fuels.
"Processing technologies will create jobs for chemical engineers, as well as for agricultural and biological engineers," he says. "Energy-related positions also will be available in environmental engineering and similar fields."
Richard adds that students interested in economics may find their alternative-energy niche in agribusiness, finance or venture capital. Those interested in public service may pursue careers in government agencies that deal with environmental and energy-related issues.
"As these new possibilities evolve, Penn State and other educational institutions are developing new curricula and offering opportunities for undergraduate and graduate research that will prepare students to help shape the country's energy future," he says.