Where Renewable Energy Journeys Begin
We hear more and more about people changing career paths. Have you ever considered making a career change yourself? One of the biggest challenges is gaining the skills, knowledge, and training needed to enter a new field. Two individuals, Herson and Jeremy, whose backgrounds are in auto mechanics and horticulture, respectively, became curious about solar energy but were looking for a pathway into the industry. Let’s meet them and learn about their journeys!
Herson has a background as an automotive technician, with extensive experience in diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs. Interested in trying something new and learning more about solar energy, Herson applied to GRID Alternatives’ Installation Basics Training (IBT) program.
GRID was able to teach me the fundamentals of installation … that led to my first position in the solar industry.
For Herson, the training he received at GRID confirmed his desire to pursue a career in the solar industry. He interviewed with Advanced Solar on the day of graduation, and now works there as an electrician assistant.
After graduating from the IBT program, Jeremy decided to continue his training with GRID and applied for the SolarCorps Fellowship, an 11-month apprenticeship-model program that provides hands-on training in outreach and construction.
would love to have my life’s work…”]
Jeremy began his role as a SolarCorps Fellow this month!
The Installation Basics Training Program
Jeremy and Herson joined six other individuals to begin their solar journeys by enrolling in the 120-hour Installation Basics Training (IBT-120) program. Each participant came from a different background, but they all shared an interest in solar energy and an eagerness to get started.
Although GRID has trained hundreds of individuals using the IBT curriculum, this was GRID Mid-Atlantic’s inaugural IBT-120 cohort. The program was led by Erika Symmonds, GRID Mid-Atlantic’s Executive Director, and instructed by Pamela Harvey and Carlos Gomez, Tribal Workforce Technical Trainers at Tribal Energy Alternatives, GRID Alternatives’ Tribal-led affiliate.
The IBT-120 program is a three week, industry-accredited solar installation training program that combines interactive classroom instruction with hands-on lab experience. In just three weeks, trainees learn job site safety, construction basics, solar array installation, electrical wiring, and conduit bending. Participants also earn OSHA-10, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
Why Solar Training Matters
The demand for solar installers remains high and continues to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for solar installers is projected to grow by 37% over the next decade, compared to an average growth of 3% across all occupations.
As the solar industry expands, employers are increasingly seeking qualified installers, however, obtaining the necessary skills and training can be a significant barrier to entry. The IBT program helps bridge that gap. The IBT course offers a pathway into a new career and positions its graduates for success in the solar industry, particularly those who have traditionally been underrepresented in the field. The program equips participants with the skills employers value and helps connect graduates with employment opportunities in the solar industry or related fields.
Celebrating a Milestone
On May 8th, I had the privilege of attending the solar showcase and graduation ceremony held at the training lab. It was inspiring to see how much the trainees had learned, and to witness their confidence and enthusiasm for solar energy.
During the event, trainees demonstrated a solar installation on a mock roof, connected with a solar industry employer, Advanced Solar, and shared their experiences participating in the program.
Advanced Solar had the unique opportunity to watch the IBT 120 trainees demonstrate skills, to provide feedback and to interview candidates, including Herson, for open roles. If you’re a solar employer interested in that level of engagement and helping to shape the future of our solar training offerings, you can fill out an interest form. We are very excited to see where Herson and Jeremy’s solar journeys take them next! If their stories have inspired you to explore a career in solar or learn more about GRID’s Installation Basics Training program, you can find additional information here.
This cohort was supported through our Sycamore and Oak Project. Learn more about the project details here and the community that powered local businesses.
