We interviewed Veteran Nathan Edwards about his experience with GRID Alternatives. Read on to see how volunteering with GRID helped him as he made a major career move.
GRID LA: Tell us a little bit about your background?
Nathan Edwards: Before I came to GRID, I had actually gone through college to become a teacher. Unfortunately, jobs for history teachers are extremely hard to come by; and even as a long-term substitute teacher I didn’t make half of what a day-laborer does. As a young man with a new wife, I knew I had to step up and change directions if I wanted to support my family.
GRID LA: How did you find out about GRID Alternatives?
Nathan Edwards: I found out about GRID actually through a veterans program. During college I enlisted in the Marine reserves, and when I was looking for a career change, I spent a lot of time looking through the different agencies supporting veterans. One of them partnered with GRID alternatives, I showed up at a volunteer install one day and I was hooked.
GRID LA: Can you describe your experience with GRID Alternatives?
Nathan Edwards: GRID was a great experience for me. I went from an orientation, to an install, to a team leader training all pretty quickly; I was really looking to learn more and be able to put “team leader” on my resume. I also had a couple of days with Alan doing site-surveys, measuring and diagraming to determine if the house could be eligible for a GRID solar system. Overall, I spent 80+ hours with GRID, and loved every minute of it.
GRID LA: What were some of the things that stood out for you during your volunteer experience?
Nathan Edwards: One thing that really stood out to me was the time Alan took to show me how to do site surveys. These are small tasks, two people can do four in a day. They demand more technical knowledge and expertise than an install, and so I am grateful for the time and care Alan put into my education there. I also appreciated how Norm encouraged my learning and leading others on the roof, showing me more advanced things and expecting more from me when he thought I could handle it - these moments really helped later in interviews.
GRID LA: Did your experience with GRID Alternatives help you gain employment in the solar industry?
Nathan Edwards: Yes! I was hired on April 21, I actually got a call for an interview when I was on (an installation) with GRID. I (am currently working for that company now), and am very happy there.
GRID LA: From the perspective of a Veteran what was the value of volunteering with GRID Alternatives?
Nathan Edwards: Solar companies would love to hire veterans, but they want someone with some experience. They want someone who knows the basics of a residential system, and I don’t know anybody but GRID who can give you that. And really, what have you got to lose? Try it out, see if it’s something you like. If you do like it, you’ll meet people and make a lot of connections with GRID. That’s how I transitioned into my current job, and I am very thankful for that.
Thank you Nathan for your service to your community.