EJATT Renewable Energy Training Field Achieves Rare Distinction for Technological Innovation

[Alsip, IL] – The Construction Industry Service Corporation (CISCO) recognized the Electrical Joint Apprenticeship & Training Trust’s (EJATT) IN-TECH Renewable Energy Training Field (RETF) with a “Special Mention” in its 2015 Pride in Construction Awards competition. The program honors top quality union construction projects.

The 25-acre project, designed by Legat Architects’ principal Alan Bombick, AIA, marks the largest outdoor training campus of its kind in the country and includes one of the Midwest’s first facilities slated for net-zero energy status (i.e., creates more energy than it consumes). The campus has evolved over the past 15 years along the master plan guidelines developed for EJATT by Bombick. It will eventually include expanded training and community education facilities to elevate awareness of real world renewable energy options and the IBEW – NECA mission.

Here’s what CISCO said about the honor: “Each year, the Board of Directors has the flexibility to choose a project that is technologically unique, and recognize it in the Special Mention category. As a teaching tool, the renewable energy field is one-of-a-kind in the country. This marks only the second time the Board has bestowed this honor in the program’s 10-year history.”

Electricians from across the region will learn the latest solar, wind and smart grid applications at the RETF. Contractors will be able to demonstrate the most advanced renewable energy, storage and management systems in action for their customers. Architects and engineers will see firsthand how these systems and technologies can improve their designs.

Every aspect of this project will improve the understanding and implementation of renewable energy that underpins the new economy.

Read “A Training Ground for Tommorrow’s Technology,” Sustainable Chicago magazine’s story about the RETF.

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