Education is a Priority
We can build a better future for our children and encourage their interest in construction and in science by passing on our own experience. With the help of educators, Mortenson Construction’s Renewable Energy Groups developed the award-winning book Catch the Wind. Catch the Wind ties into grade-appropriate science curriculum through exploring wind energy.
Winner of the prestigious Nautilus Book Award, Catch the Wind teaches children about wind energy, introduces them to careers in construction, and provides Mortenson teams with a unique opportunity to build relationships within the communities in which we work.
Within the pages of this book, you will discover wind energy with Mortenson Construction and an inquisitive boy named Nels.
This book is a nonprofit effort courtesy of Mortenson Construction. Proceeds will be donated to nonprofit entities promoting the development and use of renewable energies.
Watch for additional construction-themed books in our Discover Renewables series.
Ask About Our School Visit Program
Do you know students who are interested in learning about wind energy and constructing wind farms? Do you know teachers who could set aside one hour for an engaging presentation in their classroom? If so, then the Mortenson Construction “Catch the Wind” School Visit Program is perfect for you!
“Catch the Wind” and the corresponding School Visit Program, are best suited for students in grades 3-5, but we have done presentations for younger and older audiences. Our one-hour presentation may align with the following academic standards:Science Standard Categories:The Nature of Science and Engineering: The Practice of Engineering The Nature of Science and Engineering: Interactions Among Science, Engineering, Technology and SocietyPhysical Science: EnergyEarth Science: Human Interactions with Earth Systems Trades and Industry Technology Standard:Bring real-life application and science and construction career paths to a level elementary-age children can understand.
We would like to offer a visit to your school to introduce ourselves and to explain the importance of the wind farms to our economy and environment, and how we construct them. Please contact Anne Johnson at anne.johnson@mortenson.com to inquire about a visit to your school.
For teachers and students:

"The presentation helped our kids get a better understanding of wind energy and the entire wind farm project. It is wonderful for our students to gain more insight into what is happening around them in our community."- Principal Dan Nau, Sunburst Elementary, Sunburst, MT
"MidAmerican Energy has enjoyed participating in Mortenson’s Catch the Wind program…The Catch the Wind book and DVD are useful, educational, well-written and age-appropriate." – Adam Wright, Vice President - Wind Development, MidAmerican Energy Company
"The students and teachers had good feedback on your presentation. They learned new things about renewable energy and they were challenged to conserve energy and remember that when they work together in groups, they are developing skills they will need later in their work environment. Thanks for that message!" - Susan Degroot, 5th grade teacher, Chatham Christian School, Chatham, Ontario
Interested in learning more about wind energy? Check out these sites:
Questions and Comments?
Email us at discoverrenewables@mortenson.com