Determination, perseverance and ambition are three key elements for success. Former GRID construction volunteer Rashah Freeman has used this motto as a path to his success in the field of solar. Rashah’s journey in the solar industry began when he was a student at The Renewable Energy Academy of Learning (REAL) in Desert Hot Springs. REAL provides students with a learning environment that combines real life workplace experiences through partners such as GRID Alternatives, reinforced by a college-level renewable energy curriculum.
Rashah first connected with GRID when his teacher took his class on a field trip to a GRID solar installation. He describes his trip as very enlightening. “The experience that I gained at GRID is amazing,” stated Rashah. “Learning the skills that equipped me to become a solar installer was invaluable. The knowledge that I obtained benefitted me greatly. I gained a basic understanding of proper electrical wiring techniques and equipment needed for installing solar panels.”
Rashah first volunteered with GRID at the age of 16. Now 19 years old, he has gone on to pursue a career in the solar industry. His first solar job was working as a laborer for a local solar contractor. His career progressed as Rashah moved on to another contractor where he was recently promoted from a technician to a solar installer. Rashah credits GRID for his achievement and regularly shares his solar career success story with friends and family.
“I don’t know where I would be had it not been for GRID,” said Rashah. Before he began a career in the solar industry, he previously had his eyes set in sports. He said his parents were glad that he had found a ‘plan b’ in a field that peaked his interest other than his original football career choice.
In addition to his job as a solar installer, Rashah is pursuing his dream of being an entrepreneur and plans to launch a maintenance business cleaning solar panel systems. He looks forward to being able to offer these services to clients. Rashah’s future looks bright and he is well on his way to fulfilling his dreams. He is currently completing electrical training at Brightwood College where he is studying toward becoming a licensed Journeyman Electrician.
“I would recommend to anyone wanting to pursue a career in solar, to start by becoming a trainee at GRID. It was the best decision I could have made!”
If you are interested in learning more about GRID’s training and volunteer programs, call 951.471.7043 or visit www.gridalternatives.org/volunteer.