On a sunny July afternoon in downtown San Francisco, hundreds of people lined the lobby of the PG&E Pacific Energy Center for one common purpose ? to pursue a job in the solar industry at the first annual Solar Jobs Fair organized by PG&E and GRID Alternatives. Bringing together 13 companies and organizations in the solar industry, the Solar Jobs Fair gave the over 250 attendees the chance to talk to company reps, apply for jobs on the spot, and learn about solar companies that were previously unknown to them.
As one of the organizers of this brand new event, GRID had the opportunity to say hello to many of our amazing volunteers who were exploring options in the industry. Almost all of them mentioned that their GRID experience has given them a leg up in their job search, especially those who have gone through our Team Leader program. Another highlight of the Solar Jobs Fair was the overall number, quality and motivation of the attendees. Overall, these job seekers were interested in helping the environment, working for something they believe in, and being a part of a growing movement of clean renewable energy.
As the fair came to a close with attendees still eagerly streaming in, the excitement was still palpable. It seemed to represent the excitement of the always-expanding job opportunities in the solar industry. Solar is a growing movement, and as more people pursue careers in solar, this momentum grows and more renewable energy is produced. GRID is proud that we were part of the Solar Jobs Fair ? a new and creative way for us to connect green job seekers with employers - and we look forward to expanding our integral role in providing low-income families access to solar technology while giving volunteers hands on experience, training, and motivation to keep the solar movement shining.