An estimated 40 – 48 % of new nonresidential construction this year will be green , equating to a $ 120 – 145 billion opportunity for developers and property owners who maintain these practices .
STEM & the Future of Tech
With the advent of interconnected devices on the Internet of Things ( IoT ) and tech systems , STEM education networks are hot . Is your business ready to attract future talent with infrastructure and training ?
The rise in automation , artificial intelligence ( AI ), and the value of data demands skilled workers in the STEM fields ( science , technology , engineering , and mathematics ).
STEM jobs are projected to dramatically increase over the next 10 years — 62 % for biomedical engineers , 36 % for medical scientists , and 32 % for system software development .
STEM fields are driving the workforce and the economy . Large industry leaders are backing STEM education with an intention of boosting the talent pipeline . Look at global tech company Cisco ’ s recent initiative with the Internet of Things Grand Challenge to promote and accelerate adoption of breakthrough technologies . The company awarded more than $ 550K to winners of the challenge , as well as mentoring , training , and access to business expertise . The potential for opportunity and incentives doesn ’ t stop there . Major colleges and universities support the need for a tech-savvy and educated workforce through STEM incubators and programs to prepare individuals for jobs .
Public and private initiatives will continue to play a significant role in promoting STEM fields and related training to support this growing demand for skilled technical workers .
What this means for your business :
ÎÎAttract the workers of tomorrow with internship and apprentice opportunities . Consider fostering partnerships that position your business to work with and develop up-and-coming talent from STEM fields .
ÎÎBe in tune with your team ’ s tech needs to apply the latest changes in technological systems and create efficiencies . Consider potential infrastructure , human resources , and process improvement needs as the company responds to tech tools .
Sterling National Bank is here to support your business ’ s growing needs . Contact your relationship manager or Client Services at 855.274.2800 .
LEEDing the Way for Building
As your business grows or seeks new facilities , consider green building practices that benefit your company and brand .
LEED ( Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ) designation means a building meets prerequisites for building strategies and practices set by the U . S . Green Building Council to be environmentally responsible and use resources efficiently . The business payoff can be solid : > Gain competitive advantage . Corporate , public , and individual buyers are increasingly attracted to green buildings based on the lower operating costs and improved environmental experience . > Find long-term savings . With green construction practices , businesses realize increased annual energy savings . The key focus areas for commercial buildings include heating , air , and ventilation systems , and window , lighting , and plumbing systems . These upgrades translate to reduced reliance on water and energy . > Solid ROI and lower operational costs . Owners realize a decrease in operational costs of an average of 13.6 % for new construction and 8.5 % for existing building projects because of energy efficiencies . Owners report ROI of an average of 19.2 % of green building projects and 9.9 % for new projects . > Sustainable investment . By investing in LEED- or ENERGY STARcertified new or existing construction , building owners can increase the market value of the structure compared to non-green buildings . Building values increased by an average of 10.9 % for new construction and 6.8 % for existing building projects , according to the U . S . Green Business Council . Similarly , data shows that tenants are willing to pay more for LEED-certified spaces .
Talk with your relationship manager or Client Services about investing to become a leader in energy efficient building practices . Sterling National Bank can help .
CONNECT TECHNOLOGY SUMMER 2015 // SNB . COM | 3