Guy Payne

Most weatherization technicians in the Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAP) have received training from both the state and locally at the various regional WAP agencies. Private weatherization companies typically use on-the-job training and formal training at the company headquarters. The energy auditors for both public and private organizations are certified through Building Performance Institute (BPI).

A key learning component of all training must include a basic understanding of building science, the physics of how water, air, and heat travel through a building. It is especially important in the northeast to manage energy efficiency, water, and water vapor with equal intensity. Training in basic building science will be available at many of the local career centers and taught by experienced high performance building professionals. Efficiency Vermont will have information on local building science training organizations and training locations.

Guy Payne is the executive director of Sustainable Energy Outreach Network (SEON) in Westminster, VT. Visit www.seon.info.