Frequently when I work with finance professionals, they think about their skill sets as they relate to traditional roles in accounting firms or commercial and investment banks. But the reality is that the competencies that these professionals possess can add great value to emerging industries. It’s time for finance professionals to consider crossing the street from Wall Street to Green Street where many of the new opportunities may lie.

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The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is positioned to invest in innovation and support emerging industries such as high tech and green tech. All of these industries will still require an infrastructure to support them and traditional jobs in finance are part of that critical infrastructure. Here’s a quick look at where some of the stimulus plan money is going and where the future jobs will be.

High Tech & Green Tech

Close to $30 billion is being allocated for smart-grid related activities, energy efficiency and conservation grants, renewable energy research, grant funding for the manufacturing of advanced battery systems and vehicle batteries, wind, solar, and electricity transmission projects, and alternative fuel.

Science & Energy Funding & Initiatives

Approximately $20B will be used for federal building energy efficiency, fossil energy research and development, and weatherization assistance programs.

Transportation

Nearly $20B will be designated for transportation and infrastructure funding including investments in public transportation and Amtrak high speed and intercity rail.

In addition, many traditional industries are “greening” their products and services. Examples of greening industries include construction, IT, printing, real estate, hospitality, and event planning. And with the green movement comes the need for new methods for tracking success. Carbon accounting is an example of an emerging profession that does just that. Carbon accountants measure carbon gas emissions that impact climate change and help organizations understand, measure, and reduce their emissions. And as the green movement continues to gain momentum, other opportunities for finance professionals will evolve. For example, as more people begin to support and embrace green industries, the demand for green investor advisory services may also be on the rise.

Bottom Line

Pay less attention to what you did in the past, and instead think about today’s issues and problems and how your finance skills can help solve problems or move emerging businesses forward. Maybe for today’s finance professionals the grass IS greener on the other side!

© Copyright Barbara Safani, 2009. Used with permission.

About This Author:

Barbara Safani, owner of Career Solvers, has over twelve years of experience in career management, recruiting, executive coaching, and organizational development. Ms. Safani partners with both Fortune 100 companies and individuals to deliver targeted programs focusing on résumé development, job search strategies, networking, interviewing, salary negotiation skills, and online identity. Barbara is also the author of Happy About My Resume: 50 Tips for Building a Better Document to Secure a Brighter Future.

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