African Engineers: Green Cutlasses

In an age in which Greens preach more loudly than Christians it is fitting that popular Biblical quotations find new green expressions. In Ghana, grassroots engineers have reinterpreted Isaiah's vision of turning swords into ploughshares by turning worn out band-saw blades into farming cutlasses. Band-saws are used in Ghana's numerous sawmills to turn its mighty forest trees into wooden planks, but making cutlasses from the old blades is helping small farmers to feed themselves and their village communities. Although this activity does nothing directly to preserve the forests it does recycle precious imported material and preserve it for use in a greener setting.

Band-saw blades are made of specially formulated carbon steel that combines the properties of hardness with flexibility and shock resistance. The metal can provide a sharp and durable cutting edge with the capability to run bent around steel rollers in a continuous loop. According to veterans of the sawmilling industry, all that these blades cannot survive is meeting a large rock that has been carried up by the tree as it grew and become embedded deep within its enormous trunk. Needless to say, steel of this quality is ideal for farmers' cutlasses used for weed control and clearing scrub.

In informal industrial areas, or kokompes, like Suame Magazine in Kumasi, a cutlass maker's workshop is identified by a pile of old band-saw blades lying nearby. The conversion process is really hard work. The material is so hard that it can be cut only by a hammer and chisel. The sharp cutting edge of the chisel can survive only a few blows before it needs re-sharpening and this is effected with the aid of an electric grinding machine, usually mounted on an old wooden bench. By this arduous process the outline of the cutlass blade emerges from the flat steel sheet of the old band-saw blade.

The shape of the cutlass blade includes the outline of the handle. Two holes are punched to allow a wooden handle to be held in place by rivets. The two wooden parts of the handle are usually made by a carpenter and supplied ready shaped to be fixed by the cutlass maker. With a wooden half-handle placed on each side of the steel blade, holes are drilled through the wood and the three-part sandwich is held firmly together by two steel rivets. The cutlass is finished by sharpening the cutting edge on the same grinding machine used for re-sharpening the chisel. When well crafted, as many of them are, the locally made cutlasses are of comparable appearance and effectiveness as imported models.

The high priests of the green movement would like to see the complete preservation of the tropical forests. This would entail the cessation of logging, the closure of sawmills and the eventual demise of the local grassroots cutlass industry. Ghana's farmers would become dependent on imports, or local production based on imported material, for all of their cutlasses. No doubt, set against the larger green aspiration, this sacrifice would be easily made.

This news article is brought to you by DESTINATION-TIPS - where latest news are our top priority.

Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs And Employment Outlook

Physical therapy assistants or work under the direction of physical therapists to provide rehabilitative services to patients who are suffering from disabling diseases, injuries and those who are recovering from surgeries.

They main duties involve helping relieve the patients' pain as well as helping them restore their physical functions.

Some of the assistant duties include: observation of patients before and during the therapy sessions to gauge their improvement assisting the patients to do different therapy exercises, give them massages etc, to make a report on the responses made by the patients after treatments and to submit reports of patients to the physical therapist.

Qualities of good assistants

Compassion: most of the people having therapy will probably be in a lot of pain. The physical therapist is expected to understand this and show compassion to the patients.

Good interpersonal skills: this quality is important because you will be spending a lot of time with the patients and he/she should be able to interact with the patients in a friendly manner.

Attention to detail: when it comes to any kind of healthcare, the healthcare workers must be very keen on detail because sometimes that is what makes the difference between someone dying or living.

Assistants should be able to identify when the patient is overworking themselves and recommend rest to avoid further physical damage.

Physical fitness: the duties of a physical therapy assistant require them to almost always be on their fit. If you are not physically fit you may not be able to keep up with the duties that are required.

Jobs And Employment Outlook

The demand is expected to grow by 46% from 2010 to 2020. This makes it one of fastest growing jobs. This is huge growth means that there will be a demand for physical therapists and it is a good career to join.

This huge growth is brought about by the large number of retiring people, especially from the baby boom generation.

Most retired people will be joining retirement homes and nursing homes are one of the highest employers.One is assured to get a soft landing if he/she has had good training.

The growth will also be accelerated by the advancements in medical and technological advancements. Medical advancements will mean that the number of people surviving from accidents will increase and this means that more people who survive will be in need of physical therapy to get them back into their normal lives.

Some of the top employers include: hospitals (both private and state), ambulatory health care services and nursing homes.

Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant

To become a assistant, you must attend accredited physical therapy assistant programs from a university or a community college. This program usually takes two years and one is issued with an associate degree upon graduation.

The program usually includes both formal class work as well as clinical experience. Physical therapy assistant schools class work will include learning about physiology, psychology and anatomy of the human body.

The clinical experience will involve learning first aid procedures like CPR as well as hands on training to give the student some experience.

After acquiring an associate degree, you must then be certified.To get the license, one must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam.

Some states may also require further exams before getting your license so it is important to check whether your state has any other exams or requirements apart from the national exam.

Specializing in certain practices means that the physical therapist assistant concentrates on gaining better knowledge on one particular area of practice.

Choosing to be a specialist gives individual better job placement opportunities. Some of the specializations include: orthopedics, neurology, geriatrics, pediatrics among others. Specialization requires further certification from the American physical therapy association.

Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs Salary

The salary will vary depending on a number of things for example: experience, employment facility, specialization as well as the number of hours of work that the assistant works, for full information on physical therapy assistant salary

For those who are full time physiotherapist assistants, the median salary is around $50,000 annually. The highest paid physical therapist will receive amounts above $68,000 while those in the lower bracket will earn around $31,000 highly paid physical therapy assistant jobs are available while training be sure to look into this.

This news article is brought to you by RELATIONSHIPS - where latest news are our top priority.

Stay Safe and Be Careful: The Crucial Reason Why Electrical Installation Courses Matter

We've all heard the horror stories: someone electrocuted in their home after a freak accident. It might have been bad wiring or just bad luck, but in either case, every one of these stories points to the same basic statement with applies to everyone, no matter what their age or level of experience: if you're going to be dealing with electricity, you need to know what you're doing - and that means not just the simple things, but a good overview of everything that is related.

Go to any library and you'll be able to find a book about how to wire a plug or how to re-wire things in the home. There's no doubt that these manuals are important and serve as a great basic level of instruction: for the amateur they can save money where there is none, and allow virtually anyone to fix the basic things. But there comes a point in any manual when the information stops and the questions begin. And that's why signing up to do electrical installation courses is absolutely vital for anyone who is considering this challenging but rewarding career.

Another reason these courses matter is more critical: let's say you're looking to become the kind of electrician who works in large buildings and deals with the electricity supply running through countless floors of offices. In this case, you need to understand the implications of your actions, because re-wiring a house is very much different to starting work on a London office building. More to the point, with electricity being used by so many people, the stakes are higher and you'll need a sound understanding of what to watch out for.

Working with other electricians is obviously also important; while many electricians work on their own, in some circumstances they may need to work not only with electricians, but with builders, plumbers and joiners. All these people will be relying on electricity to do their jobs, so in some ways the electrician carries more responsibility than he or she may at first be aware of.

Aside from the safety aspects of working as an electrician, technology is moving all the time and learning from the internet - or even from someone who has been an electrician for many years - simply isn't enough. Neither will be able to show you how the most modern techniques actually work in a modern working environment, whereas these courses happen in places which are legally required to keep on top of the latest advances.

The result of learning from these qualified instructors is efficiency, safety and discipline. By learning step-by-step the right way to do things, you also won't pick up bad habits that will be difficult to shake-off as the years go by. Instead, you'll be acquiring knowledge which means you'll always be up-to-date with the latest guidelines. Rules which keep everyone safe as they go about their work, beginning with YOU!

This article is sponsored by medical case study.

Becoming A Mechanic From The Comfort Of Your Own Home

The internet has revolutionized education and professional training. Nowadays, anyone can learn a new craft or skill by enrolling in an online training program. Whereas once upon a time this may have been reserved solely for the book-learning world of university education in the humanities, today's inter-active training environments have opened up the doors to even the most technical form of education.

You may think that it is a disadvantage to learn what is normally considered a hands-on skill without the benefit of a classroom or workshop. This may seem especially true of the mechanic industry. How can one learn to inspect, diagnose and repair a vehicle by simply sitting in front of a computer? Before you give in to such scepticism, take the time to research some online training courses to see exactly how they can be advantageous.

Becoming a mechanic starts first and foremost with an in-depth knowledge of cars and engines, how they are put together, how they function as a whole, and what are some of the possible problems that they have. Interactive software serves as a three-dimensional encyclopedia of parts and functions that can be easily navigated with a click of the mouse or more complicated algorithmic search methods. Another advantage to this kind of study is that you can work with simulated accidents and breakdowns without having to worry about actual vehicular damage or worse, bodily harm due to collisions. Online mechanic training can take the student through a wider variety of situations than any real-life course would be able to feasibly provide.

There is really no limit to the training modules that can be learned in an online program. Great inter-active mechanic courses can still easily cover such topics as:

• mechanical diagnostic techniques
• gas engine and fuel systems
• brake systems
• steering, suspension and tires
• electrical systems
• emissions tuning
• safety and environmental procedures
• and more

There is no reason to think that taking online courses in service advisor training will have the disadvantage of not having direct contact with teachers and instructors. With the variety of communications methods opened up by the internet, one can still have a personalized relationship with teachers who will offer feedback, answer questions and give you general career guidance. In fact, studying online can put the student in touch with an even larger number of instructors from all over the country. This potential only serves to widen the areas of expertise that help train the aspiring automotive repair expert.

If you don't have the full time availability to learn this exciting trade, don't be put off by a lack of options. Online training courses have changed the way people are able to take control of their desired careers. The right education is not necessarily dependent on how much time is allocated to a student in a classroom setting, but rather, how much time the student is willing to invest even from the comfort of home. Auto- mechanic training is no exception.

This news article is brought to you by MARKETING - where latest news are our top priority.

Ways on How to Train For Small Engine Repair

Since time immemorial, small engine repair training has had several field options attached to it. That is to say, one can make a career out of choosing a field covering boat outboard motors, lawnmowers or generator engines. To effectively master small engine repairs one must have adequate hands-on training, besides the usual theory on their sleeves. And this training, for the records, is readily offered by institutes spread far and wide in the country.

Unlike the theoretical training which is also considered imperative, a complete hands-on training program provides one a wide enough base of knowledge for employment at an engine shop. If one needs to make a career out of this field, it is a requisite they be well equipped with necessary skills and training. Below are a number of ways on how one can train for work on engines.

Top on the list is to make a decision on which type of engine that fascinates you. It could be one is interested in the field of lawnmowers and tractors, or generator engines; whichever one you decide on ensure to choose the right program under the field that best suits your career goals. A myriad of schools offer specialized programs in motor-cycle engine repair, general outboard and small engine repair.

If you have an interest and a passion for engines, apply for a small engine repair school in your area. It goes without saying that - given the number of small engine repair schools that have mushroomed in recent times - one is spoiled for choice in regards to choosing the right school. Prior to applying, it is advisable to check which schools offer courses and degree programs of your choice. It could be a local community college, vocational school or an international university.

Applying to a vocational school is one thing, but attending is another different thing altogether. Attend the selected school and complete the program in question. It is an essential part of the training. In fact, one cannot secure a career - let alone apply for a lucrative position - in any small engine repair business if they did not complete their training (with exemplary grades).

And while at school, take additional courses. Not only does it help in enhancing ones skills, but it also provides one an opportunity for taking on any lucrative job that comes their way. Then again, by taking educational courses that provide video instructions in repairing common small engines like lawn mowers, one gets to master their repair skills.

This news article is brought to you by DATING-FOR-BOOMERS - where latest news are our top priority.

You Can Get CDL Training Even If Your Financial Situation Is Poor

If your goal is to obtain CDL training, there are plenty of opportunities available even for those with no money, bad credit or no credit. The only thing that will stop you is a poor driving record or a serious criminal history. Other than that, if trucking is what you truly want to do, training is easily attainable.

No money or bad credit is typically the number-one reason why people don't look seriously into attending truck driving school. They think it's unrealistic if they don't have money or if their credit is poor. Most CDL schools offer financial aid. The aid is available for those who qualify, however, which means you'll need good or at least OK credit in order to qualify.

That's where paid CDL training companies come into play. These companies will offer to pay for your Class A training at their own facilities. In return, you must agree to work for them for a set amount of time, usually one year.

This is the perfect opportunity for those who are in financial straits. No money and no credit usually means no opportunities to advance your career. But paid CDL training lets you make a fresh start. This is how it works in three basic steps:

1. You attend the company's training facility for a certain amount of time, usually around four weeks. In the first few days or so you will take a written test to get your CDL driving permit that will allow you to drive a truck with an instructor present. In the last few days of training you will take the test to earn your actual commercial drivers license.

2. Once you have your Class A, you will be assigned a trainer and take to the road for a certain amount of time, anywhere from two to six weeks depending on the company. Some companies split this initial training into two parts with two different instructors, which can extend the training to as much as eight weeks.

3. Once you've completed this, you'll be assigned your own truck and will begin working by yourself as a company employee. Some companies will let you partner with someone else and drive as a team. Friends or husbands and wives will often enroll in school together so they can drive as a team later on.

The benefits of this type of CDL training are huge. You will get career training and a guaranteed job with no money up front, even if you have bad credit. And most importantly, you will gain experience. This is crucial in the trucking industry.

Most companies want to hire drivers with at least one year of experience. You'll get that with paid CDL training. After your year is up, you are free to seek out employment with any company you choose.

The only drawback is that you will not make industry-standard pay during that first year. You will be compensated on the low end of the pay scale. However, this is to be expected considering the training you got for free.

Another potential drawback is that you'll have to spend two to three weeks, possibly more, on the road at a time before getting back home. Some people are fine with this and some people don't like it. But if you remember that it's only for a year while you gain valuable experience, you'll might see it's worth being away from home a lot.

So if you've ever considered CDL training but didn't think you'd qualify because of your financial situation, think again.

This news article is brought to you by FISH OIL FOR BLOOD PRESSURE? - where latest news are our top priority.

CNA Training: Now Available Online

As there are a number of issues that many people face most of the medical facilities are looking towards unlicensed nurses to help them care for patients who cannot take care of themselves. These assistants must undergo a special CNA training that is capable of providing them with the knowledge that is necessary to help them perform their tasks efficiently. This way the assistants can fill in for shortage of staff which is needed by these people. This training is inevitable for those aspiring to become a certified nursing assistant.

In case, you are a student of medicine and would like a profession that is in assistance to a doctor or a nurse, it is ideal for you to consider CNA training as one of the best solutions. The instructions given to you are top notch and can ensure that you will get employment in the medical field. In this way, you will be able to help patients however necessary. Many people have noted that certified nursing assistants are important in hospitals that are over populated with patients who are in need of special care. Since this is an issue that is prevalent, you can be sure to get a job without any issues.

For those of you who are looking to get the assistance of professional to become a CNA, try locating theses institutes online. There you will find many specialists who can give you a nurse aide training that is reasonably priced. The quality of instruction provided to the students at these establishments is known for its ability to make a person like you earn well in this medical field. Therefore, research about these institutes to select one that is capable of helping you reach new heights.

If you are living in America, you will be happy to know that you can acquire the training of a CNA institute. There are a number of slots that are waiting for a person like you to fill them up. For many, CNA training is one of the best ways through which they can help patients acquire their ability to learn to walk once again. Apart from this, many programs allow you to learn a lot of techniques that are essential to help you take care of the patients efficiently. If you are becoming a CNA, then it is ideal for you to ensure that you have assessed all the possible avenues from where you can get these instructions.

You need to ensure that you are ready to take on the responsibility of caring for another's life. If you are sure, then it would be in your best interests to consider comparing the various CNA training institutes. In this way, you can eliminate the ones which are expensive as well as those that do not provide you with the necessary knowledge you seek. Many past students have noted the best way to determine this is by taking a closer look at the agency's websites. There you will be able to go through the feedback section where previous students have written what can be expected from these agencies. So, go online and browse these websites for more information.

This news article is brought to you by YARD AND EQUIPMENT - where latest news are our top priority.