The NextGen Training Academy will prepare the next generation of the solar workforce.
In order to meet U.S. clean energy targets, the solar workforce may need to grow six times over by 2035. The NextGen Training Academy (NextGen) will create new pathways into the solar industry to meet this challenge and to provide opportunities for individuals to reach new heights in their careers.
NextGen is GRID Mid-Atlantic’s next step in pursuit of its goal to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive solar workforce.
From 2016 to 2023, GRID Mid-Atlantic provided hands-on workforce training to 384 Mid-Atlantic residents and placed 126 into clean energy jobs by implementing the Solar Works DC program. From that experience, we're building a new workforce development umbrella with the NextGen Training Academy to directly engage women, veterans, and communities of color looking to seize solar careers.
At the same time, the academy will educate future leaders on the needs and opportunities of the solar industry.
How will the NextGen Training Academy create solar leaders?
The NextGen Training Academy will provide opportunities for individuals of every race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background to enter the solar industry.
It will include three unique training programs: Solar Futures, Women in Solar, and Troops to Solar.
The academy will also include:
- An equity, inclusion, and diversity (EID) program that will spark conversations and change mindsets around EID for individuals in the industry and entering the industry.
- A mentorship program that will pair trainees with community members that can provide personal and professional support.
- A scholarship program that will support trainees who aspire to continue their education at a college, university, or trade school.
What is Building Bridges?
Building Bridges connects NextGen Training Academy participants with additional resources to support them in their personal lives. Each day, NextGen trainees and graduates (as well as graduates from the former Solar Works DC program) are invited to join the Building Bridges live Zoom session from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and again from 1–3 p.m. Visit the Building Bridges page to learn more about resources available for trainees and program graduates.
ACADEMY PROGRAMS
