The Odebrecht Organization is putting a new twist on recruitment. Beyond offering cash prizes, totaling $65,000, to university students, their professors and their schools for the best papers on "contributions to sustainability," the company will offer students with shortlisted entries the opportunity to participate in its training and internship programs.

What a high-tech way to find the best and brightest! And sustainable, as well. Think of all those college recruiters who no longer have to travel from school to school! Think of all the energy saved.

Odebrecht, a Brazilian multinational that operates in engineering and construction, as well as energy, environmental engineering and real estate sectors, will judge entries on ideas for new building techniques, new chemical and petrochemical processes and alternative uses of sustainable materials that "explore innovative practices, methods and ideas."

The "sustainability award," as it is called, is new to the U.S. but not to Odebrecht. It is currently presented in six other nations.

The first prize is $20,000 to the student or students; $10,000 to the advising professor and $10,000 to the university. Second prize is $7,000, $4,000 and $4,000. Third prize is $5,000, $2,500 and $2,500.

Entries will be accepted from Jan. 2 through May 31 at www.odebrechtaward.com. Winners will be announced in June.