Our armed forces hails brave men and women who not only serve our country, but also provides troops with training in various fields. GRID IE Construction Intern Jesse Mota moved through the ranks from Private to Master Gunnery Sergeant while serving in the United States Marines before landing at GRID Alternatives. “I was stationed in Panama as an Embassy Guardian. My duties included acting as a ‘changing of the guards’ to gain confidence and develop trust with the locals,” Jesse reflected. While in the Marines, Jesse developed a broad range of skill sets that set the stage for his career in the solar industry, including his experience as a combat engineer. He was honorably discharged after 25 faithful years of service to the American people.
Jesse was born in Indio and later moved to Desert Hot Springs where he currently resides. After his military service, he spent several years doing electrical work for a private contractor, which included the installation of 500 to 1,000 panels at a solar farm in Palm Springs. He first learned about GRID through an acquaintance. His background as a licensed electrician and previous experience in the solar industry was a frontrunner to further expanding his knowledge through the hands-on training that GRID offered through the Troops to Solar program. Troops to Solar equips veterans and activity military with hands-on job training empowering them with marketable skills for the high-growth solar industry. Jesse is one of over 300 veterans who have participated in this program, thanks to funding through GRID’s community partner Wells Fargo.
Jesse acquired over 400 volunteer hours at GRID while completing various electrical, fall protection and job safety training. He then continued his learning experience through GRID’s Construction Solar internship program, which he will finish this month. “It is a great program and I encourage any young person that is considering a career in solar to sign up. GRID gives you the experience necessary to lead you to a career in solar,” said Jesse.
In addition to his electrical work on the electrical panels for GRID homeowners, he enjoys volunteering his time outreaching within the community and sharing his GRID experience with everyone he encounters. Jesse plans to continue his work as a licensed contractor and volunteering at GRID whenever possible.
GRID gives trainees like Jesse valuable skills necessary to get a job in this flourishing solar industry. Veterans interested in participating in the Troops to Solar training program, or low-income homeowners who would like more information about GRID’s free solar energy assistance program can contact GRID at 951.272.4743 or infoie@gridalternatives.org. Sign-up as a volunteer and start your career today! Special thank you to Wells Fargo for supporting our Troops to Solar program!