Continuing & Professional Education
SUSTAINABILITY TRAINING FOR HOMEOWNERS & PROFESSIONALS
SUNY Ulster Continuing and Professional Education is pleased to announce the addition of a series of Sustainablility Training and Green Technology Courses. These programs are designed for those wishing to start a career in this growing field, professionals looking to expand their skills and credentials, and homeowners, or anyone, interested in learning about current technology and practice in the area of sustainable living.
NEW: Click here to listen to the WDST Radio ad for the
Sustainable Building Program.
Homeowners and Professionals
2010 COURSES
Coming October 2010 - National Sustainable Building Advisor Certificate Program
Buildings consume 40% of all energy used, 70% of the electrical energy, and produce 33% of the CO2 emissions in the US. These numbers can be reduced by making our buildings more energy efficient. No wonder creating sustainable buildings is now a guiding principle in our communities! Certified sustainable advisors are equipped with the information and tools to educate and encourage individuals and communities to work towards energy efficient, sustainable buildings.
This nine-month course focuses on the basic issues, design techniques and building practices behind sustainable building. Students will learn how to use guidelines including LEED, do cost/benefit analyses, and make use of government-sponsored financial incentives and technical assistance. This course is recognized by the US Green Building Council as a Mastery 400 course and is approved for 100 learning units by the AIA and for LEED AP credential maintenance credits .
For complete information, contact Ann Songayllo at 845-687-5012, or email songayla@sunyulster.edu..
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NEW! Sustainable Transportation: An Introduction to Electric Vehicles
This course is designed to provide participants with a working knowledge of modern electric vehicles, as well as a sense of their history. It also serves as a prerequisite for a follow-up course of a more detailed and technical nature.
This course will begin with a brief history of the electric vehicle, from its earliest incarnations in the 19th century, through its demise in the early 20th century, to its revival in the 21st century. The course will examine the quest for a better battery, as well as the economic advantages of the electric vehicle as compared to those powered by the internal combustion engine.
The course will include a detailed study of the technology of the electric vehicle—both low speed and highway speed versions-- as it exists today and with a look at the future. The technical part of the class will include hands-on operation and dissection, as well as the driving of actual electric vehicles.
Target audience: The course is intended for concerned citizens interested in learning how transportation can fit into their quest to live more sustainable lifestyles, fleet owners who want to learn about the economic benefits of electric vehicles, and automobile technicians looking to learn to service and repair electric vehicles.
Instructors: John Conway and Joseph Conway, Buzz Equipment Company
Thu, Oct 15 - Nov 19 • 6:00 - 8:30 PM
6 sessions • $150
To register, contact Continuing and Professional Education at 845.339.2025.
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SPRING 2010: Introduction to Photovoltaics (PV) Systems Design and Installation Certificate Series -
Recognized by NABCEP
Join us for this comprehensive 52-hour certificate series designed for those with little knowledge of Photovoltaics (PV) systems. This certificate consists of a focused curriculum of six core courses detailing Electrical Theory , Photovoltaics Systems Design , Worker Safety and Controlling Electrical Hazards , Battery Workshop , Hands-on Photovoltatics Installation Workshop , and PV Systems Review .
This certificate series is tailored to those students who are looking for a hands-on, slower paced approach with more individual attention than our standard Photovoltaics Installer's Course. (For the complete description of this course, click here .)
This series of courses will be taught by a team of instructors to optimize your learning experience. The cost of all material is covered by course tuition, there is no need to purchase anything before coming to class. Each student will be given a copy of the most popular textbooks in the PV industry; Photovoltaic Systems and Photovoltaics Design and Installation Manual as well as a spiral bound copy of the classroom notes. Students will also receive the latest copy of the National Electrical Code (NEC 2008) and a scientific calculator. Tools of the trade will be available for use during workshop hours only and instruction given on the use of these tools.
Series will include a balance of classroom instruction and student interactive exercises.
Class size limited to 20 students.
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Sun, Feb 14 - Mar 14 9 am - 5 pm
4 Sunday sessions $3,250 (includes books)
plus
Review for NABCEP Entry Level Exam and Exam
Sat & Sun, Mar 20 & 21 9 am - 4 pm
2 sessions (included in course fee)
Exam on March 21, 2010 from 4 - 6 pm
DCB 992-02
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Photovoltaics (PV) Installer’s Course - NABCEP Approved
Learn the basics of how to site, design and install photovoltaic (PV) systems! This course includes sizing systems for both grid-connected and off grid PV systems. Learn about the solar resource, the problems associated with shading and what is the best orientation and tilt for PV
arrays. Discuss the basic sizing and design of systems to serve a given electrical load.
Learn safety procedures for installers and study the electrical code for PV systems in detail. Study various mounting systems for PV arrays and how they affect roofs. Includes a hands-on installation of a PV system! Students completing this course may sit for the NABCEP exam.
Your instructor is Dr. Gay E. Canough, a NABCEP certified PV Installer and ISP certified Master Trainer.
This course is approved for The Training of Veterans.
Prerequisite: High school diploma; must be able to do simple arithmetic calculations; must have basic understanding of electricity including familiarity with volts, amps, and AC wiring.
For those who need a basic electrical course see below.
Recommended Textbook: Photovoltaic Systems, $70
Materials Needed: Calculator, volt/amp meter for AC and DC voltage, AC and DC current of at least 20 amps.
Course is Approved for 28 PDHs
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Mon - Thu, Oct. 12 - 15 9 am - 4:30 pm
4 sessions $599
DCB 888-09 BRC
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Fridays & Saturdays, Oct. 16 - 31 Fridays 6:30 - 10 pm, Saturdays 9 am - 5:30 pm
6 sessions $599
DCB 795-01 BRC
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Mon - Fri, Nov 16 - 20 9 am - 4:30 pm
4 sessions $599
DCB 795-02 BRC
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NEW! Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge of PV Systems Review
This course is for those who have completed the Photovoltaics (PV) Installer’s Course and feel that they need a review before taking the NABCEP Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge of PV Systems exam. The course will cover the ten skill sets listed on the NABCEP learning objectives.
Fri & Sat, Nov 6 & 7 9 am- 4 pm
2 sessions $125
DCB 992-02 BRC
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NEW! Advanced Photovoltaics Systems
This course is geared toward PV installers and engineers who have experience with photovoltaic systems. Basics of PV will not be covered. Topics discussed will include the future of solar energy, review of formulas needed to size PV, how to design a PV system with battery backup, PV mounting systems, calculating wind load, weight load on roofs, mounting, safety on roofs, calculating system efficiency, wire sizing, performance monitoring, shading analysis, troubleshooting and
complying with NYSERDA forms and regulations.
Your instructor is Dr. Gay E. Canough, a NABCEP certified PV Installer and ISP certified Master Trainer.
This course is approved for The Training of Veterans.
Prerequisite: high school diploma; knowledge of basic algebra and trigonometry; must have basic understanding of electricity including familiarity with volts, amps, and AC wiring, must know how to operate a calculator.
Materials Needed: Calculator, volt/amp meter for AC and DC voltage, AC and DC current of at least 20 amps.
Approved for 14 PDHs
Wed & Thu, Nov 11 & 12 9 am - 5 pm
2 sessions $350
DCB 956-02 BRC
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NEW! Solar Sales Training
The solar industry is filled with smart engineers and scientists. But the industry also needs sales people.
Attend this workshop to learn the basics of selling solar energy systems and the reasons why people buy these systems. Learn how to talk to customers on the phone, how to sort customers, how to ask for the deal and listen to the customer. Learn how to develop a proposal and set goals.
During class you will develop proposals for various sized solar energy systems, put together presentations for prospective customers and look at various marketing techniques.
Bring your laptop, a blank CD and portable printer and paper to class so you can take home finished proposals and presentations.
Bring photos of your installations, certificates and endorsements related to your business.
Your instructor is Francine Notte of ETM Solar.
Mon & Tue, Nov 2 & 3 9 am - 4:30 pm
2 sessions $350
DCB 957-02 BRC
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NEW! Conquering the Forms and Regulations of Government Solar Incentives
This workshop will cover NYSERDA and LIPA incentive paperwork, including allowable costs for reimbursement and rebate and how to use PowerClerk® to check application status (NYSERDA).
Plus, the course covers applying for building permits, including filling out permit applications, putting together complete packages for towns, getting stamped drawings, and other requirements by local building inspectors. The class will discuss how to deal with the utilities for interconnection, including: contracts, drawings and system information required by utilities and navigating utility departments.
Finally, it will cover special considerations when doing work in New York City.
Sample paperwork packages will be provided.
Wed, Nov 4 9 am - 4:30 pm
1 session $250
DCB 958-02 BRC
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Basic Photovoltaics - A General Overview for the Homeowner
Are you a homeowner who is interested in getting more information about photovoltaics? Join John Calhoun of John Calhoun PE as he discusses:
• Types of photovoltaic (PV) systems used in today’s residential applications
• Operating principles of PV systems
• The solar resource - what makes a good application
• Financial incentives for PV systems
• How to get started
• Hands-on with PV equipment
Sat, Oct 10 10 am - noon (w/optional open discussion from noon - 1 pm)
1 session $39
DCB 887-04 BRC
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NEW! Solar Hot Water Installation & Design
In 2008 energy prices have risen to unprecedented levels. Solar Hot Water Systems can help offset your customers’ energy needs and reduce their carbon footprint while taking advantage of lucrative tax credits. These systems are reliable and efficient and the installation of these systems can be a profitable addition to your list of services. This introductory course is intended for the contractor, tradesperson or student who has a basic knowledge of thermal systems and would like to have a more detailed understanding of solar hot water systems, their components and design.
This course is presented by Peter Skinner, PE, President of E2G and Betsy Ferris Wynman of SunDog Solar.
Thu - Sat, Oct 22 - 24 12 noon - 6 pm
3 sessions $499
DCB 933-03 BRC
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Introduction to Small Wind Systems and Small Wind Installation Workshop
Interested in learning how to install your own wind turbine? Join Roy Butler of Four Winds for this week long class. Interested homeowners, businesses, and contractors will have a rare opportunity to learn first hand how to properly site, specify, permit, and install a residential scale wind energy system by participating in this week long workshop.
Day one will be an overview of wind turbines for those who simply want more information.
This course is approved for The Training of Veterans.
Monday Only • Sep 14 • 9 am – 4:30 pm
1 session • $89
DCB 894-04 • BRC
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Prerequisite for the 5 Day Course: A basic understanding of electricity.
Approved for 35 PDHs
Monday - Friday • Sep 14 - 18 • 9 am – 4:30 pm
5 sessions • $499
DCB 900-04 • BRC

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Radiant Floor Heat for Homeowners
Presented by John Abularrage of Advanced Radiant Design Inc. – John’s course focuses on practical information for homeowners interested in this economical and comfortable heating system. He will cover the types of systems available and proper installation.
Wednesday • Oct 14 • 6:30 - 9:00 pm
1 session • $39
DCB 476 • BRC
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Green Home Building and Renovation with Green Home Tour
This course highlights actual green building and renovation projects in the Hudson River Valley. It features guest speakers and new sections on the green real estate market and how to have carbon neutral 24/7 emergency back up power at one’s home.
The second session will be a tour of 3 green homes submitted to New York House magazine’s “Best in Green Building Competition” where the students will be able to meet the homeowners and ask them questions to see first hand how green homes are built and function. The class gives a complete, practical overview on how to find land, design, build, and/or renovate a home to make it green and sustainable.
Topics include:
• alternative energy systems like geothermal, solar PV and solar thermal, passive solar design, green roofs and walls,
• sustainable and non-toxic materials and insulation,
• panelized building methods such as ICF and SIP,
• energy efficient LED lighting, appliances, and instant hot water heaters,
• air filtration and
• HRV “green” mortgages.”
The course also covers New York State Energy $martTM loans, State & Federal subsidies for energy efficiency with rebates and tax breaks, certified home energy audits and HERS raters.
Your instructor is Paul McGinniss, a co-founder of New York Real Estate Group and a New York State Licensed Real Estate Broker.
Saturday • Oct 17 • 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Saturday • Oct 24 • 10:30 am - 3:30 pm
2 sessions • $59
DCB 564-07 • BRC
Tour session will be held on Oct. 24. Bring a lunch. Transportation is not provided to these homes. Carpooling is recommended.
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For more information on any of these courses or others offered by the SUNY Ulster Office of Continuing and Professional Education,
please call (845) 339-2025.








