As solar power system markets expand, solar project developers and turnkey service providers are struggling to find qualified technicians and solar installers for rooftop solar and distributed generation projects. Solar installer jobs, one of the fastest growing occupations in the U.S., are expected to increase more than 50% by 2030. To help fill this gap in the southeastern U.S., St. Petersburg College partnered with the University of Central Florida’s Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) to launch the first solar energy apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor.

Future apprentices in the Florida training program must already be employed by a solar company that is an approved member of the apprenticeship solar consortium before participating in the program. While working, attendees will take courses fully paid for by their employer to prepare them for certification in the solar installation market.

Source: Florida Power & Light CompanySource: Florida Power & Light Company

Those interested in enrolling in the two-year Solar Energy Technician Apprenticeship are invited to complete this form. Employers interested in participating in the program can submit information here.

To contact the author of this article, email shimmelstein@globalspec.com