The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth has extended early registration for the May 11 “Green Today, Jobs Tomorrow” conference at the Lansing Center through March 31 at migreenjob.com.

Registrants can save at least $25 by signing up today for the $110 early registration fee. The registration fee increases to $135 from April 1-May 4. Registration on the day of the event, if still available, will be $185. A limited number of student registrations are still available for only $35 for college and high school students as well.

The conference seeks to encourage workforce development and economic growth, showcase Michigan as a state that is embracing green economy and to provide a networking platform to build relationships and public/private partnerships in Michigan's green sectors. The agenda includes a panel discussion with Apollo Alliance Director Kate Gordon and numerous breakout session that explore what people all over Michigan are doing today and where we might go. The keynote speaker appears to have been a fortuitous choice:

“One reason we decided to extend the deadline is the fact we received exciting news this week that our keynote speaker, Van Jones, was tapped by the Obama administration as a Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation,” said DELEG Director Stanley Pruss. “We know that people are excited more than ever about hearing how Michiganders of all socio-economic backgrounds can be a part of the new green economy.”

Jones believes it's time to create the Clean Energy Corps - a modern version of FDR's Civilian Conservation Corps. He will be working on the President’s agenda of creating 21st century jobs that improve energy efficiency and utilize renewable resources and will also help to shape and advance the Administration’s energy and climate initiatives with a specific interest in improvements and opportunities for vulnerable communities.

Looks like an interesting conference for anyone who is seeking to get involved in the growing "green wave" that is building in Michigan and across the country - register today!