Vanderbilt University Course: Green Jobs
Overview
The course bridges the gap between academic climate science and career opportunities by offering real-world experience and valuable networking with industry leaders, including water department directors and city officials, power company CEOs, and construction professionals and former consultants. The building sector is responsible for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, creating an urgent need for more sustainable construction practices. In this course taught by Tiffany Wilmot and David Adams, students analyze green building strategies and their economic impacts through real-world case studies across different building types. The students research how innovative design, material selection, energy systems, and certification processes create both environmental benefits and financial returns. Beyond examining technical aspects, this course explores the social dimensions of green building, including community impact, occupant health and productivity, and how sustainable construction influences urban planning. By understanding the value proposition of green building, students gain practical knowledge about a rapidly growing sector that demonstrates how social responsibility and economic success can work together in the built environment.
Wilmot’s Role
As course instructor, Tiffany and David guide students in small teams to select a green building case study and conduct comprehensive research analyzing both environmental and economic impacts. Students examine key sustainability features, quantify resource savings (energy, water, materials), analyze construction and operational costs compared to conventional buildings, and evaluate certification achievements (LEED, Living Building Challenge, etc.). Throughout the six-week course segment, Tiffany and David mentor teams as they document findings, interview industry professionals, and prepare professional presentations that clearly communicate implemented sustainability strategies and their measurable outcomes. The final deliverable includes both a detailed written report and a 20-minute presentation, focusing on how environmental design choices translate into tangible benefits beyond basic certification requirements. The instructors demonstrate how sustainability principles create value while preparing students for careers in the growing green building sector.
Client
Vanderbilt University
Location
Nashville, TN
Markets
Higher Education
Services
Curriculum Development