by Ashley Andrus and Linda Anderson

Though the State of Colorado’s unemployment rate grew to 7.2 percent in February 2009, there are still industries in the state that are thriving and adding employees in a variety of job categories.

The energy sector remains strong with a diverse range of career opportunities. According to a release on Thursday March 26th by Gov. Ritter’s office, “This week alone, Colorado has seen three straight days of new job announcements, which will create more than 1,600 clean energy and water jobs over the coming years.” Growing companies in this sector include organizations like The Water Company in Pueblo, Ascent Solar in Thornton, and Vestas Wind Systems in Brighton.

Organizations in this sector will receive an additional boost as stimulus funds begin to be infused into renewable energy technology and efficiency programs. Colorado’s new energy leadership — with its strong presence of renewable energy companies positioned across the state – is widely expected to provide an edge in the competition for federal stimulus dollars to promote the enhancement and growth of this new energy sector. Part of these funds is to be set aside for state energy programs that will provide career training to fill the numerous jobs being created by the new growth. Read the rest of this article »