The automotive industry is without a doubt the pillar of Windsor's economy.

But a local tech agency is hoping to show our youth there's another industry in our backyard that’s growing fast -- and looking for talent.

"Most Canadians aren't aware that this is such a big, exciting and innovative and fast-growing sector," says Irek Kusmierczyk, the director of partnerships for WE-Tech Alliance.

WE-Tech Alliance is hosting the first ever Clean Tech Academy from July 4-10. It is inviting 40 high school students in Grade 10-12 to sign up for the week-long program to gain exposure to industry professionals and opportunities in the field of clean technology.

"There's tremendous opportunities for young people to find good employment, good jobs, really creative exciting and innovative jobs in the clean tech sector," says Kusmierczyk.

According to Investment Ontario, this province is home to 3,000 clean tech companies employing approximately 65,000 people. Ontario makes up more than one-third of the clean tech industry in all of Canada.

“We just want more young people to be aware of that. As high school students plan their career path and plan what they're going to take in college, we want them to think of these companies," says Kusmierczyk.

CS Wind Canada opened its doors in Windsor in 2010 and has been attracting local talent. Paolo Piunno is a University of Windsor grad and works as a project manager at the wind turbine manufacturer.

“Driving up and down the 401 you see all of the infrastructure, hundreds of towers that have been erected over the last five years in the area,” he says. “To be a part of that and to have played a role in that part of clean tech has bene tremendous for me personally and for my career."

The Academy is free of charge. To sign up, email program administrator Irek Kusmierczyk.