On Klensy’s first day at Solar Works DC, he didn’t know too much about solar. “I had wanted to work in solar, but the first day, I didn’t understand too much,” he says, “I wasn’t sure what racking was, what modules were… but now, everything is so easy.” Now, Klensy is a seasoned installer, working for New Columbia Solar.
In fact, just one month after the completion of the 12-week program, Klensy and 8 other Solar Works DC graduates have been hired by solar-related organizations and are working in the solar and renewable energy field. Ayaz started his installer job at Sun Run in the beginning of January and he’s already been on three different projects. “The job is going really well, everyone is really nice. I definitely see myself continuing down this career path,” says Ayaz.
"Solar Works DC is revolutionizing how the District is improving economic mobility for historically underserved and underemployed residents in a rapidly expanding solar industry,” said Tommy Wells, Director of DC’s Department of Energy and Environment. “Nine of our 22 fall graduates have already been hired by local employers, primarily in the solar industry. With its proven economic, social, and environmental impacts, I am confident Solar Works DC will continue to lead the way in innovation and excellence, while improving the quality of life for all who call this great city home."
Klensy occasionally runs into Pedro or Tyshaun, two Solar Works DC graduates who also install with New Columbia Solar. They have done jobs together, just like when they were trainees. They love their work. As Klensy says, “It’s solar so, I like it a lot.”
GRID is thrilled with the success of the Solar Works DC job training program, and is gearing up for a Spring Solar Works DC cohort.
The application deadline has been extended to Friday, January 19th.