As the world changes and grows, the need for sustainable building projects is in demand. This means that those who have a LEED certification are being sought out to help in anything from neighborhood development to interior design. But who needs a LEED certification and why? Let’s take a look.
WHAT IS A LEED CERTIFICATION?
LEED stands for “leadership in energy and environmental design” and is the highest standard of showing that an individual or building is certified in sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices.
When an individual receives a LEED certification, it tells employers and project managers that the individual is “green” and is certified to guarantee that their project follows sustainability practices.
LEED-certified buildings must be inspected by a Green Building Council Inspector. They are given a score based on the LEED rating system. The points are given based on how the building addresses indoor environment quality, energy efficiency, water and waste management, sustainable design, and environmental impact.
If the building passes, it is then given a rating that is broken up into the following:
- LEED-certified: 40-49 points
- Silver Certification: 50-59 points
- Gold Certification: 60-79 points
- Platinum Certification: 80 points and above
WHAT JOBS USE A LEED CERTIFICATION?
As the world becomes more conscious of LEED projects, it is a great idea to become a LEED-certified individual. Preparation for LEED can begin as early as high school through programs like 21stCentEd’s LEED Green Associate preparation program.
Now let’s take a look at some careers that benefit from having a LEED certification.
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
Construction management oversees the design, construction, and operation of a building project. Since they are involved from start to finish, they know projects intimately. Those who wish to be involved in sustainable projects would benefit from having a LEED certification. The building industry is seeing more and more sustainable building projects. This makes it a no-brainer for those involved in construction management to receive their LEEDs certification.
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
Landscape architects have the important job of adding beauty and practicality to our outdoor spaces. The outdoor areas of a building play an important role in a building gaining a LEED score. This makes it extremely important for LEED projects to hire landscape architects that already know how to create outdoor spaces that follow the LEED guidelines. If the landscape architect is LEED certified, they have a much higher chance of being hired for green projects.
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS
Structural engineers become involved in a building project from almost the beginning, which makes them a huge part of the planning process. LEED buildings need a structural engineer that chooses building materials that are sustainable and efficient. By planning well, they can help avoid excess materials for the project, utilize recycling and reusing materials, source materials locally, and lower carbon emissions.
COMMISSIONING AGENTS
A building’s HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety need to be verified by a commissioning agent. These components of a building project are areas that will be considered in their operations and maintenance in a LEED certification. These LEED projects will need a commissioning agent who is (at the bare minimum) knowledgeable about the LEED certification system. As more projects seek to become LEED-certified, commissioning agents that are properly certified will be highly sought after.
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERS
Environmental engineers are primarily concerned with indoor air quality and waste management. These are two huge areas that will be reviewed for a building to receive a LEED certification. Having a LEED certification is an excellent way for an environmental engineer to boost his resume since much of his job is closely related to LEED topics.
INTERIOR DESIGNERS
LEED principles are applied all throughout projects. Due to this, it is helpful for interior designers to have knowledge of LEED qualifications. As they design LEED spaces, it is important for them to know how to properly enhance an area so that it saves in energy costs as well as utilizes sustainably made materials and pieces.
PREPARING FOR A LEED CERTIFICATION
How can I prepare my child for a future in LEED certification? 21stCentEd has a certification prep for the LEED Green Associate. This helps give them the tools they need to prepare to become LEED-certified. It teaches them many components of green building. It also shows them the many aspects of sustainable building.
