ABOUT ENERGY MASTERS
Modeled after the Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardeners program, volunteers receive comprehensive training on energy and water conservation. After training, students participate in a variety of service projects in the community to hone their skills and develop their expertise. Volunteer efforts focus on making improvements to affordable housing apartment buildings and providing education to the community.
The next training session starts October 1, 2024.
APPLY by September 20, 2024
The application period begins in July and runs through September 20th. Apply by September 9 for an early-bird discount.
BECOME AN ENERGY MASTER!
Volunteers who:
- Complete an online application
- Successfully complete a brief telephone screening/interview, and
- Pay a registration fee. $110 ($90 if you apply by September 9). Needs-based waivers available – just ask*
- Complete a background check **
Will then:
- Train – complete a seven-session training program
- Serve – apply what you’ve learned in the community
- Report – track and submit your service hours
* All are welcome and encouraged to participate in this program, regardless of financial means. If the registration fee is a barrier to your participation, please contact us. Registration fee not required for student volunteers.
** Background check is required for participation. Once accepted into the program, each community volunteer will submit a secure online form to initiate a background check. Background check is not required for high school student volunteers who are under 18 years old.
Over a seven-week period during October and November, candidates will participate in a series of classroom training sessions and one hands-on Saturday field-work session. Much of the content for our training sessions has been adapted for either in-person or virtual delivery.
Specifically, volunteers will learn how to:
- seal air leaks around doors, windows, and electrical switch plates with foam adhesive and caulk
- install gaskets behind light switch and electrical outlet plates
- install faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads
- replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with more efficient, long-lasting LED bulbs
- install flow restrictors in toilets
- provide energy efficiency and water conservation education and outreach in schools, to community groups, and to individual residents and families in affordable housing apartments
Have questions? Check out our FAQ page or please get in touch.
Interested in volunteering?
Before you apply, please read the program overview to get details on the commitments and program dates.
APPLY NOW!
Community Volunteer
Adults new to the program
Student Volunteer
High school and young professionals between 16 years and younger than 18 years
Note: in order to apply, you must create an account in our Better Impact system. Please contact bill@ecoactionarlington.org if you have trouble applying through the Better Impact website and request a copy of the application in Google Forms.
Energy Masters provides an equal opportunity to volunteer to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability, sex or age, or other status protected by law.
