Redefining Futures

Nijah first found out that she liked math and science in middle school. “There’s just something about math,” she says, “it’s complicated and easy at the same time.”

Nijah, a DC native, is able to explore her passion for math and science through Solar Works DC as a job trainee. Nijah, along with 22 other trainees, is only a week and a half away from graduating the 12-week hands-on solar job training program. This cohort has come from all kinds of different jobs and experiences – delivering mail, graduating high school, nursing, or even being in between jobs. Now all are brought together by a common desire to learn a new trade.

The trainees started with a month of classroom work and mock solar installations before getting on a roof. “I like that the learning was hands-on, it makes it easier to get on site and start working,” explains Nijah. Then, they joined our GRID staff on solar installations, learning how to problem solve and install in real time for the remainder of the 12-week program.

Each participant is discovering new interests through the Solar Works DC program.  Roxy, who was a nurse prior to Solar Works DC, is interested in the electrical work. Daniel, enjoys the guest speakers who teach in the classroom.  Marcus, who used to be in JobCorps, explains his favorite part of the program, “All the certifications we get. All that stuff we didn’t have before and now we’ll have.” That’s one lasting aspect of Solar Works DC - participants walk away with GRID’s Installation Basics Training certificates, OSHA 10 and CPR certifications, and are ready to sit for the NABCEP certification exam and find a solar job.

Nijah has discovered a way to turn her passion into a career. “I’m trying to continue with a solar career and continue in the construction field, either roof or ground work. I like all of it. Solar construction is more like engineering. You use your brain. And plus you are helping somebody out. That’s a big thing right there.”