When Javier Pinos first came to GRID Alternatives last spring to volunteer he was studying Level 2 Photovaltaics at the East Los Angeles Skills Center. He was eager to work with GRID on an actual solar electric installation for a local low-income family to complement his academic learning and gain the hands-on experience that would prepare him for employment.
Since then, Mr. Pinos (pictured here at far left, measuring out a rail placement) has been a very valuable asset as a volunteer, helping GRID Alternatives bring the environmental and economic benefits of solar energy to the people who need it the most while working hard to develop his own skill set as an installer. But recently, Mr. Pinos wrote to GRID, regretfully declining participation as a volunteer on an upcoming GRID Alternatives project. The reason? A schedule conflict: he is now working as an installer with Sungevity.
I thank everyone that helped me at GRID Alternatives, and allowed me to have the great experience to work with you to install solar for low income households, Mr. Pinos wrote. Every installation with GRID has been a unique experience for me in helping me to understand and learn new things and gives the spiritual reward of helping someone else for a good cause. And that's been a huge part in my learning process that besides my PV classes, allowed me to find a job in the PV industry, and so, I want to thank you very much again for existing and being what you are.
GRID Alternatives and Javier Pinos will work together again. Mr. Pinos hopes to join another GRID Alternatives installation soon and share the experience hes gaining at his new job with other volunteers who are just starting out. Any available time I can make to volunteer again, he says, You can be sure I will be there.
Donate now and help more job trainees like Javier get hands on experience with solar!