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.

Addressing Disparities in Energy Systems

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 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 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 C4SBT, 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 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.

Empowering Students for the Future

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 C4SBT 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.

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