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The Sustainable Development Training Institute is a division of O'Brien & Company. It's mission is to provide engaging, effective learning experiences that transform practitioners and consumers into change agents for a sustainable built environment, and support them in this leadership role. In general these trainings are not offered regularly to the general public but are given at the request of organizations. In addition to our current programs, clients hire us to create custom trainings for their audiences. Sample training programs include:

LEED Study Sessions
Passing the LEED exam requires a working knowledge of LEED and green building as well as the ability to apply that knowledge to LEED project situations. These study sessions provide a review of LEED project administration, the credits and points in each LEED category, and how they are applied on real projects. Homework problems challenge participants to develop a working understanding of the LEED system. Role play exercises during each section will allow participants to practice applying LEED in the way they will be tested on the accreditation exam.
The sessions are run by experienced LEED Accredited Professionals and use a participatory approach for adult learners. All participants will have to study the LEED Reference Manual and credit interpretations outside of the study sessions to prepare for and pass the examination. Participants will also need to purchase the LEED v 2.2 Reference Manual from the USGBC. Learn more by downloading the LEED Study Session flier.

Build it LEED
A half-day workshop for contractors, Build it LEED presents a complete, step-by-step process for managing the construction of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Rating System projects from preconstruction to documentation. Designed for construction managers, general contractors, subcontractors, construction companies, and builders, this training explains:
why LEED is such a big deal in the construction marketplace; the 17 points in the LEED system that every contractor should know; and the complete management process for constructing a LEED project from preconstruction through documentation. Participants can practice planning and documenting key LEED Credit items and master “difficult” points that present a challenge. A valuable take-home resource, the Build It LEED Toolkit, is also available for separate purchase. Contact our partner, the Cascadia Region Green Building Council, to register.

National Sustainable Advisor Program
This program was developed locally, but is now offered in 10 colleges in 4 states and 2 countries. The SBA program offers training specifically designed for working professionals who wish to apply sustainable concepts to the buildings they design, develop, construct, and/or maintain - buildings that are energy and resource efficient, healthy working and living environments, environmentally responsible and cost effective.

The SBA class provides attendees with the tools to:
* Identify and articulate key sustainable building practices
* Apply LEED, Built Green, and other relevant criteria and established guidelines
* Analyze costs and benefits of incorporating sustainable building measures
* Establish sustainable design goals and achieve them in their projects
* Take advantage of financial incentives and technical assistance offered by governments, utilities and non-profits organizations
* Experience the integrated design and decision making approach necessary to achieve all of the above


Learn more about the National Sustainable Building Advisor Program including course locations in your area.

Custom Training Package
Several large firms and agencies have hired us to provide custom trainings for their staff. Additional training topics include "Puzzling out Green Affordable Housing," "Green Building IS Your Business Series," and other retreats, conferences, and hands-on workshops. Learn more by downloading the SDTI flier.

 


O’Brien & Company
811 First Avenue, Suite 380
Seattle WA 98104

206.621.8626 tel
206.621.8649 fax
info@obrienandco.com email



Kathleen O'Brien recognized
as a Cascadia Fellow
by the Cascadia Region Green Building Council
Read more about the six individuals who received
t
his lifetime achievement award.