High School
Technical skills as well as business and communication skills are required for solar energy installation management work. Be sure to take classes in mathematics, physics, earth science, environmental science, computer science, business, and English. Shop classes are also essential for honing skills with machinery and tools.
Postsecondary Education
Solar energy installation managers have a variety of backgrounds. Some have a background in electrics, construction, or other trades. Many receive training at vocational schools or have an associate's degree and have received on-the-job training through a three- to four-year apprenticeship. College courses in math, environmental science, business, management, computers, communications, and English are helpful for this field.
Professional associations, trade schools, apprenticeship programs, and solar energy equipment and module manufacturers offer courses and certification programs in solar energy systems installation and management. The Solar Living Institute, a nonprofit organization, offers solar training via online and traditional courses. Visit its Web site, https://www.solarliving.org, for more information.
Certification
Some two- and four-year colleges and universities offer certificates in renewable energy technologies.
Other Education or Training
The American Solar Energy Society, Smart Electric Power Alliance, Solar Energy Industries Association, and The Solar Foundation offer webinars, classes, and conference workshops. The Interstate Renewable Energy Council also provides professional development opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.
- Bioenergy/Biofuels Workers
- Biofuels Processing Technicians
- Biofuels Production Managers
- Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
- Biomass Plant Technicians
- Biomass Power Plant Managers
- Energy Brokers
- Energy Conservation Technicians
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Lobbyists
- Environmental Planners
- Environmental Scientists
- Environmental Technicians
- Fuel Cell Engineers
- Fuel Cell Technicians
- Fuel Cell Technology Workers
- Futurists
- Geotechnical Engineers
- Geothermal Energy Industry Workers
- Geothermal Production Managers
- Geothermal Technicians
- Green Builders
- Green Transportation Careers
- Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
- Hydroelectric Production Managers
- Hydropower and Marine Energy Industry Workers
- Renewable Energy Careers
- Renewable Energy Engineers
- Renewable Energy Site Assessors
- Solar Energy Industry Workers
- Solar Energy Sales Representatives
- Solar Engineers
- Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians
- Wind Energy Engineers
- Wind Energy Industry Workers
- Wind Energy Operations Managers
- Wind Energy Project Managers