CAC offering free Green Collar workshops in September

Central Arizona College is reviving its no-cost Green Collar Workshops during the month of September at the Casa Grande Center.

The workshops will be held in the Green Trades classroom of the center, located at the intersection of Florence Boulevard and Trekell Road in Casa Grande.

Initially unveiled in June, the series of one- and two-hour workshops will be offered five times in September and will feature topics such as weatherization and steel metal framing. They will be provided by vendors and experts relating to green collar jobs, green concepts and do-it-yourself green programs.

From 1-2 p.m. on Aug. 26, Steve Kuyon, the construction trades preceptor at CAC will provide an overview of the workshops. “Anyone interested in our construction trades program or participating in the Green Collar Workshops should visit the Casa Grande Center,” he said. “Instructors will answer questions about course content, credits, employment readiness, adult basic education, how to register, possible financial aid – and much more.”

While there is no fee to participate in the workshops, advanced registration is required. The following workshops will be offered beginning Sept. 4:

Insulated Concrete Forms (Sept. 4, 1-3 p.m.) – Paul Denigris of Greenblock ICF will discuss the benefits of the green building material known as Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) over traditional masonry construction. ICFs are durable, fast to install and have lower labor costs. Homeowners and businesses may see a 30-70 percent savings in heating and cooling because of ICF insulating qualities.

Steel Metal Framing (Sept. 11, 10 a.m.-noon) – Sam Seagren of Dietrich Metal Framing will discuss the benefits of using steel metal framing over traditional wood. Steel metal studs are durable, fast to install and require lower labor costs, and homeowners can enjoy the benefits of having their homes constructed from metal framing members totally resistant to termite damage. Steel framing materials are recyclable and classified as a green building material.

Weatherization Services (Sept. 15, 1-2 p.m.) – Gabe Eylicio from the Gila County Community Service Division Weatherization Program will teach participants how a weatherization audit of a home or business can possibly lower energy costs. Participants will discover how air leaks and drafts can rob the efficiency from heating and cooling appliances while also learning how to apply for federal assistance in obtaining energy efficient heating and cooling systems.

Energy Saving Windows (Sept. 15, 3-4 p.m.) – Dow Rigler of Renewal by Anderson of Phoenix will teach students about the new Fiber-X frame material made by Anderson. Learn about a 30 percent federal tax credit on special windows and doors and discover how replacement windows and doors can reduce energy costs.

Solar Electric Photovoltaic Systems (Sept. 23, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) – AJ Saferstein of Dependable Solar Products, Inc. in Mesa will discuss grid and battery tied photovoltaic systems, new product advancements, location and installations, system costs and savings over time and energy tax credits and utility rebates.

For more information on the classes and workshops, or to register, please contact Kuyon by phone at 520-494-6054, or by e-mail at [email protected], or contact Penny Miller by phone at 520-494-6053, or by e-mail at [email protected].

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