Ayaz was laid off in December 2016. While on the job hunt, Ayaz's father suggested he volunteer with GRID Alternatives to strengthen his resume. He signed up, but was skeptical about what he would actually be doing. “I thought it would be like we were there [at the install] but not really doing anything.” Fortunately, his experience was exactly the opposite. He was able to take part in the installation process. He fell in love and wanted to pursue solar even further.
“I was like, I really like doing this. How do I get paid to do this?”
That’s when Sal, GRID Mid-Atlantic's Construction Manager, suggested Ayaz apply for the Solar Works DC program. Over the course of 12 weeks, Ayaz received more in-depth training, completed industry relevent certificates, job readiness workshops, and assisted GRID's construction team in completing 12 residential and commercial solar installations. The day he graduated from the program, he met with a Sunun recruiter. Within the next week, Ayaz had an interview and received a job offer. In January, Ayaz will be paid to do what he loves: installing solar.
Ayaz credits his success and new career pathway to the Solar Works DC training, “It honestly gave me the skills I need to succeed in the industry."
Less than two weeks after the Solar WOrks DC fall session concluded, six trainees have received job offers. Other trainees are preparing for the NABCEP certification exam and interviewing with local companies for solar installation, sales, and design openings.
Help connect hardworking people to good jobs in the Mid-Atlantic.
