One trainee’s journey through San Diego’s IBT program shows how training can lead directly to a career in solar
Workforce training is at the heart of GRID Alternatives Southern California’s mission, and sometimes the path into that work begins in unexpected ways.
For Sean Ray Williams, that path started when his mother toured the San Diego office of GRID Alternatives Southern California and learned about the Installation Basics Training program. After hearing about the opportunity, she encouraged Sean to take a closer look. He enrolled soon after and began training in August 2025.
Sean joined the IBT 200 program at GRID Alternatives Southern California’s San Diego training facility. The five-week training introduces participants to the fast-growing solar industry through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Trainees learn installation fundamentals, electrical basics, and job site safety before moving into lab work and real rooftop solar installation projects.
The program is designed to prepare participants for real careers in the clean energy workforce. In addition to installation skills, trainees receive resume support, mock interview practice, and guidance on navigating the solar job market. Participants who complete the program earn a $2,500 stipend and leave with industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA 10 safety certification, CPR and First Aid certification, and an IBT 200 certificate of completion. The program is delivered by GRID Alternatives, an IREC-accredited training providerand aligned with standards recognized by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
Sean quickly stood out during the training. He approached the program seriously and developed strong installation skills throughout the cohort. At one point, he nearly didn’t complete the program, but the training team worked with him to refocus and keep his attention on the opportunity in front of him. Sean responded by stepping up his efforts, finishing the program strong and graduating at the top of his class.
Sean Ray Williams with his IBT 200 graduation class.
After completing the program, Sean stayed engaged with the workforce team and followed job opportunities shared with graduates. When a position appeared on the job board email sent to trainees, he applied, secured an interview, and soon received an offer from Baker Electric.
To help him start that new chapter, GRID Alternatives partnered with the MAAC organization to provide Sean with a brand-new tool bag equipped with the tools needed to begin working in the solar field. With training completed, tools in hand, and his first job secured, Sean stepped directly into the clean energy workforce.
Stories like Sean’s show what programs like IBT can make possible. By combining hands-on training, industry credentials, and strong connections to local employers, the program helps open doors for young people looking to build careers in the clean energy economy.
The San Diego team continues to expand the program with multiple IBT cohorts scheduled throughout 2026, including sessions running from April 13 through May 15, July 6 through August 7, and August 31 through October 2.
For those looking for a pathway into the solar industry, programs like IBT offer a place to start. Sean’s journey from training to employment is one example of how opportunity, mentorship, and determination can come together to launch a new career in clean energy.