Expert: Harold Garabedian - 4/2/2001

Question
Hi Harold,
  I am a software engineer in the Boston area with about 3 years experience at software development. I would really like to find a job that has some socially redeeming value; preferably one that provides some benefit to the environment. I've done some web searching but am not finding much intersection between software engineering and the environment. (I realize that just 'the environment' is a pretty broad parameter, one that I'm sure I'll begin to delineate further as I begin to see what opportunities are available.)
  Would you have any suggestions on avenues/resources to help me in my search? Any ideas would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
David

Answer
Your question is very broad, but I do know of one firm that employs software engineers in the Boston area whose products are built with the environment in mind.  Solectria Corp. of Wilmington, MA developes power electronics for auto applications, most impportant for electric and hybid-electric vehicles.  They are expanding intot eh distributed-generation market as well (intergrating solar, wind into the electric grid. You may want to contact them (978-658-2231).

Good Luck.