MASON CITY, Iowa – High School seniors in Mason City will have a new opportunity to explore careers in renewable energy.

The Pathways to Green Energy Careers program is intended to introduce students to cutting-edge industries such as wind, solar, battery storage, and biofuels while equipping them with essential safety skills and industry knowledge.  Mason City High School says students will explore a variety of career options during their first semester, from technician roles to engineering and environmental science pathways.  Work-based learning experiences would then be emphasized during the second semester.

“We believe the ‘Pathways to Green Energy Program’ has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of students and the future of the green energy industry in North Iowa,” says Alison Doyle, Associate Director at Iowa State University Research Park.

Mason City High Schools says the program would be ideal for students interested in fields like:

● Wind, Solar, and Battery Technology (Technicians, Installers)

● Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)

● Science and Agriculture (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental, Agricultural Sciences)

The program is made possible through the support of Golden Grain Energy, Alliant Energy, North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC), and the Iowa State University Research Park and is funded in part by an Iowa STEM Best grant.

“[Mason City High School’s] Green Energy High School Program is an exciting step toward preparing students for high-demand careers in the green energy industry,” says Patti Hansen, Dean of Continuing Education at NIACC.