“I enjoy being counted on,” shared Frank Robles (he/him), who completed his eight-week Construction Internship at GRID IE through the TCC Riverside grant in December 2024.
GRID Alternatives Solar Internship Program with the City of Riverside and Riverside County Workforce Development is supported by California Strategic Growth Council’s Transformative Climate Communities Program with funds from California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment.
Designed to provide hands-on solar installation training and prepare trainees to enter the solar industry, Frank was enthusiastic about working with solar panels: “I am proud of myself for being motivated and coming to work every day. I know more than I did before walking into this internship.”
“Safety over speed” and “listen and communicate” are two lessons Frank plans to use throughout his career.
Frank recalled a fun but challenging task—measuring, cutting, and bending conduit—an essential part of the solar installation process that protects and safely routes electrical wires around the roof and home. “Practicing and having coworkers who had confidence in me is how I overcame the difficult task,” shared Frank, who referred to his supportive colleagues from the Workforce Development Team at GRID IE.
We can’t wait to see what’s next for you, Frank!