With the news very much focused on wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the recession and the ongoing row over MP?s expenses, green issues appear to have taken a back seat over the past year. Environmentally friendly projects are going ahead in spite of the recession, but are not hitting the headlines.

Whether the subject of the environment and having more sustainable building projects will be highlighted in the run up to next year?s election is debatable. However, the whole issue is being taken seriously across the UK with firms looking to be more eco-friendly.

Companies have had to rethink their strategies and even retrain employees to meet with the change in culture, and comply with the demands of clients in the private and public sectors. Training courses are being delivered to teach skills such as assessing energy usage, reducing CO2 emissions and fitting solar hot water systems.

Mechanical and electrical engineering jobs are no different in that management and staff are having to adapt to the new environment. UK firm EMCOR designs, builds, installs and maintains sophisticated mechanical and electrical systems but have adapted to provide sustainable solutions to clients.

The company has secured an agreement with Cardiff Airport to help meet its strategic energy reduction and environmental objectives. EMCOR will work with the airport to save energy, reduce its carbon footprint, and deliver sustainable solutions to support its future growth plans.

Therefore, it is important for employees to diversify and hone their skills to meet the demands of a new age and potential employers. The skills in many areas such as mechanical and electrical engineering jobs have evolved over time and will continue you to do so.