Geothermal Energy Industry Workers

High School

Mathematics, earth science, physics, environmental science, and chemistry classes will be helpful if you plan to work in the geothermal energy industry identifying and harvesting possible sources of geothermal energy from within the earth. Aspiring trades workers should take shop, math, and physics courses. English, speech, and computer science classes will be useful to any type of worker.

Postsecondary Education

Educational requirements vary for geothermal energy industry workers. Secretaries and receptionists, for example, typically need only a high school diploma and learn most of their skills on the job. Others receive some postsecondary training in basic business and office practices.

Trades workers, such as welders, plumbers, and electricians, acquire training via apprenticeships, by attending technical colleges, or completing on-the-job training.

Engineers usually have bachelor’s degrees in their particular specialty (such as mechanical or civil engineering). Engineering managers often have graduate degrees in their engineering specialty or in engioneering management. Engineering technicians prepare for the field by earning an associate’s degree in engineering technology or a related field and completing on-the-job training.

Geologists, geophysicists, and geochemists in the geothermal energy industry usually have graduate degrees.

Construction managers typically have bachelor’s degrees in construction management, business management, or management, along with experience in the construction industry.

Power plant operators prepare for the field via a combination of education, on-the-job training, and practical experience.

Web sites that offer information on geothermal education include https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/colleges-and-universities and https://irecusa.org/clean-energy-training.

Certification

The American Association of Petroleum Geologists offers Geothermal Energy Basics, an online course that is part of a five-course series. Students who complete all five classes earn a certificate in renewable energy. Visit https://www.aapg.org for more information. Some colleges and universities—such as the University of Nevada-Reno and Hagerstown Community College—offer certificates in geothermal energy, renewable energy, and related fields. Contact schools in your area to learn more about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The Geothermal Rising offers workshops and seminars at its annual meeting and trade show. Topics include drilling, economics, environmental aspects of geothermal activity, financing, geochemistry, geology, geophysics, heat pumps, legal aspects, management, non-electric uses, and reservoir engineering. Other organizations that provide continuing education opportunities include the Association of Energy Engineers, International, Geothermal Energy Association, Interstate Renewable Energy Council, Midwest Renewable Energy Association, and the National Society of Professional Engineers. Contact these organizations for more information.