Preparing District Residents for Solar Careers
Over the course of 12 weeks of Solar Works DC, DC residents gain skills through hands-on solar installation, reducing barriers to full-time employment in the solar industry. For many of our trainees, it’s a pathway to a life-long career. Watch and read the experiences of our Solar Works DC trainees.
Working For a Better Life in Reentry Through Solar Works DC
Robert Richards' greatest passion in life is his daughter. Solar Works DC helped him build a career to support her needs and set a positive example in her life.
“I want my life to be better so her life can be better, so she won’t have to grow up like I grew up,” he said. Robert now works full-time in the solar industry at New Columbia Solar.
Gaining a New Family—and Career—in Solar Works DC
Khalil Faison was ready to start his career—he just didn't know what direction he wanted it to go. A friend encouraged him to enter a workforce training program, which changed his life. He now works at Advanced Solar.
“I really feel like the program was one of the best things to ever happen to me,” Khalil said. “With the program, you don’t just get a career — you get a new family, someone to talk to when you need help. Once you’re in it, you’re in it forever.”
For Jahlil, Solar Works DC Provided More Than Workforce Training
Jahlil Wormley was an Anacostia River Hero and had a history of caring for his environment. While in the Solar Works DC program, he was injured by gun violence and coped with homelessness. His Solar Works DC case manager helped him secure housing and his training provided him the skills to begin working full time at Tesla Energy.
“Jahlil is a very humble young man,” his case manager said. “His self-determination was evident during his journey through the Solar Works DC program. He never complained to me about anything. He just wanted to be pointed in the right direction.”
