Van Slyke will prepare students for careers in Wind Energy Technology through Ecotech Institute's custom labs and hands-on application

September 23, 2014 – Denver, Colo. – Ecotech Institute, the only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability training, today announced that it has named Auston Van Slyke as the school's new director of the Wind Energy Technology program. In this position, Van Slyke will continue to advance the courses for wind energy students through customized, hands-on lab experiences and curriculum.

"Auston is truly a trailblazer in the industry and will work with our students to make sure they are 100 percent ready to enter a job in the renewable energy workforce," said Chris Gorrie, academic dean and interim president at Ecotech Institute. "His background in curriculum development and experience as a wind technician and hiring manager makes him one of the best counselors for those pursuing a career in wind energy technology."

Van Slyke is not new to Ecotech Institute. He has been with the school since 2011 and has taught wind turbine fundamentals, wind turbine systems, troubleshooting, fluid power, wind safety and industrial and residential wiring.

Prior to joining Ecotech Institute, Van Slyke served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, where he specialized in communication and weapon systems upgrades to AV-8B Harrier jets. He was later employed by Vestas and traveled the U.S. and Canada working on the world's largest turbines.

"It's very exciting to have the opportunity to further the education of our students here at Ecotech," said Van Slyke. "The individuals that come to us are passionate about clean and renewable energy – I'm honored to help provide them with the skills they need to make a difference in their communities."

Ecotech Institute, based in Aurora, Colo., currently offers seven associate's degree programs, alongside Wind Energy Technology:

*Facility Management Technology
*Energy Efficiency
*Solar Energy Technology
*Renewable Energy Technology
*Electrical Energy Technology
*Power Utility Technician
*Business Administration – Sustainability.

For more information on Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America's workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today's alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.