As buildings increasingly incorporate advanced technologies, there is a growing need for professionals who can design, implement, and manage these complex systems. Recognizing this demand, the Center for Smart Building Technology (C4SBT) at Roxbury Community College (RCC) has developed a comprehensive SMART Building program. This program not only equips students with cutting-edge skills but also ensures that marginalized communities are actively involved in shaping and benefiting from energy policies and projects.
Energy justice lies at the heart of the SMART Building program. It is imperative to address the disparities and inequalities in how energy is produced, distributed, and consumed, particularly on the social, economic, and environmental impacts of these systems. The program is designed to educate students on the critical needs and rights of communities that have been disproportionately affected by harmful energy practices, such as pollution from power plants. Through their coursework, students are preparing to make their voices heard in future energy policy decisions, ensuring that the transition to sustainable energy is equitable and inclusive.
The Center for Smart Building Technology (C4SBT) at Roxbury Community College, founded in 2020, plays a vital role in helping Boston achieve its carbon-neutral goal by 2050. With nearly 70% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions coming from buildings, the Boston Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) requires large buildings to reduce energy use.C4SBT trains workers in energy-efficient smart building practices to help meet these standards while promoting environmental equity and creating pathways to green jobs for underserved communities.
The core mission of the Center for Smart Building Technology (C4SBT) focuses on addressing
the impact of carbon emissions and building science on marginalized communities. The
program empowers students to advocate for equitable energy policies and prepares them
for careers in areas such as building automation, energy-efficient operations, and
facilities management. Graduates gain the expertise needed to implement sustainable
practices, ensuring that the transition to a greener economy is inclusive. By doing
so, they are uniquely positioned to fill essential roles in Boston’s clean energy
workforce, contributing to the city’s climate goals while promoting a more just and
sustainable future for all.
Leadership and Vision in Workforce Development
Kat James, the Assistant Director at the Center for Smart Building Technology, is an enthusiastic leader and advocate for workforce development. One of her early priorities was to reorganize the program and raise awareness, with a focus on enrolling students from underserved communities. Under James’ leadership, RCC has become a beacon of opportunity for those seeking to enter the fast-growing clean tech industry.
In FY24, James led the inaugural Building Fundamentals Program, a one-semester, 100-hour course where 25 students earned three industry credentials in building science fundamentals, energy-efficient building operations, and an introduction to Building Automation Systems (BAS). The program achieved an 80% graduation rate, with two students securing full-time positions and three enrolling in the 450-hour, 11-month BAS certificate program.
This fall, the Building Fundamentals Program has been restructured to offer separate certificates, making it more affordable and allowing students to enroll in courses that better align with their career goals, whether in residential or commercial buildings. The new Facility Controls Fundamentals certificate introduces BAS and provides a pathway for students pursuing the more comprehensive, longer BAS program.
At C4SBT, James oversees several key programs, including the inaugural 450-hour Building Automation Systems (BAS) certificate program, a new Energy Auditing Pre-Apprenticeship program in partnership with Everblue, and a workforce training initiative with Bloc Power. This initiative equips returning citizens with essential certifications in building science and career development. Additionally, James leads the High School Expansion Program, partnering with four Boston Public Schools to offer courses in Building Automation Systems and Fundamentals of Green Buildings. These programs are designed to provide career awareness of this innovative technology, provide hands on experience and support Boston's transition to energy efficiency and carbon reduction.
Additionally, James leads the High School Expansion Program in partnership with four Boston Public Schools, offering courses in Building Automation Systems and Fundamentals of Green Buildings. These programs are designed to raise career awareness of the building automation industry and clean energy fields, providing students with direct experience in emerging technologies. By doing so, the program supports Boston's transition toward energy efficiency and carbon reduction while preparing students for future careers in the green economy.
James emphasizes the importance of career development within the SMART Building program. By making energy justice a tangible and relatable concept, the department empowers students to find opportunities that align with their interests. This fall, the SBT will be facilitating five programs, including one specifically aimed at educating high school students. The curriculum, distinct in its focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, prepares students to earn a national credential while gaining practical, hands-on BAS training. The interdisciplinary nature of SMART building technology fosters critical thinking skills as students learn to integrate various technologies to address complex challenges in building design, construction, and maintenance.
The SMART Building program has received multiple grants that enabled the program to purchase new equipment and hire additional instructors. A Program Manager and Lead Instructor have been brought on board, expanding the department and allowing James to focus on more executive tasks, such as engaging directly with legislators and other key stakeholders.
The demand for professionals with expertise in SMART building technology is increasing as industries and governments prioritize sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. RCC’s SMART Building program keeps students at the forefront of technological advancements, providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to lead in this rapidly evolving industry. By integrating automation, building management systems, and energy justice principles into the curriculum, RCC is preparing its students to become leaders who will shape the future of sustainable building and energy policy.
