Over the last three years, GRID IE and the Center for Employment Opportunities Inland Empire (CEO) have partnered to provide solar installation skills to justice-impacted community members. GRID IE programs such as Virtual Installation Basics Training and paid Construction Internships have been “transformational in providing important and critical services to populations seeking workforce opportunities, resources, and upward mobility,” shares Cindy Corrales, Workforce Development Director and GRID IE.
Through our leading partnership with CEO, funding was successfully awarded from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the California Community Reinvestment Grants Program (CalCRG). The mission of the CalCRG program is to advance health, wellness, and economic justice for populations and communities harmed by the War on Drugs. With this funding, GRID partner with CEO to provide various paid solar training programs including GRID’s Virtual Installation Basics Training, Solar Construction Internships, and SolarCorps Fellowship opportunities.
Among the individuals introduced to GRID IE’s programs through our partnership with CEO is George Avila, who has trained with GRID for over a year now. Let’s meet him!
“Something new I’ve learned while working at GRID is that I can do more than I expected from myself” shared George, who was introduced to GRID IE’s Virtual Installation Basics Training program through CEO. Since then, George has completed GRID’s 40-hour Virtual Installation Basics training, a 3-month, paid Construction Internship with GRID, and is now wrapping up his 11-month SolarCorps Fellowship!
George installing solar panels with GRID IE’s Construction Team.
Among the skills that George developed during his time at GRID, “using hand tools and learning how to communicate with teammates” have been the highlights. He found these skills especially useful during more challenging days on the job, such as working in Palm Desert when the weather hit 106 degrees on the roof. “Being able to work under those extreme conditions was hard, and I am proud of not giving up on myself and my teammates,” said George, who has grown more confident in his ability to complete tasks under pressure successfully.
George's favorite memory was the SolarCorps Fellow Retreat in Oakland, California, where Fellows from all of GRID’s regions came together for in-person workshops and team-building.
When asked how GRID IE’s programs have impacted his life, George emphasized his increased financial stability, social skills, and learning the importance of regular hydration from drinking plenty of water! “I would like to thank the whole GRID IE team for teaching me the meaning of teamwork and helping me strive to be a more productive member of society,” shared George. Thank you for your perseverance, George—we are excited for what comes next for you!
Finally, a big thank you to CEO Inland Empire, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), and the Cal CRG program for their support. We look forward to building on this training movement and creating more positive impact together—one trainee and one solar panel at a time.