High School
For technical positions in the solar energy industry, be sure to take classes in computer science, mathematics, physics, and shop. It also helps to have basic knowledge of chemistry, earth science, environmental science, physics, and related classes. Business and accounting classes are useful for advancing to supervisory and management roles. Communication skills and the ability to use computers are key to success for all workers in the solar energy industry, so be sure to include English, speech, and computer science classes.
Postsecondary Education
Solar thermal installers and technicians who have an associate's or bachelor's degree have improved job prospects. Many installers have a background in the construction industry or experience working as electricians. Courses in solar installation are offered by professional associations, trade schools, apprenticeship programs, and photovoltaic module manufacturers. Installers might also learn skills in roofing and plumbing in order to master all the skills needed to complete an installation. They receive on-the-job training or participate in apprenticeship programs. A growing number of colleges offer education and certification programs in renewable energy. Find information at https://www.energy.gov/eere/education/education-homepage and https://irecusa.org/workforce-development.
The Solar Living Institute, a nonprofit organization, offers solar training via online and traditional courses. Visit its Web site, https://solarliving.org, for more information. Also, many large solar energy equipment manufacturers offer training and certification programs.
Other Education or Training
The American Solar Energy Society, Solar Electric Power Alliance, Solar Energy Industries Association, and The Solar Foundation offer continuing education (CE) opportunities via webinars, classes, and conference workshops. The Interstate Renewable Energy Council and the Midwest Renewable Energy Association also provide 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
- Chemical Engineers
- Chemical Technicians
- Chemists
- Coal Miners
- Divers and Diving Technicians
- Electricians
- Energy Brokers
- Energy Conservation Technicians
- Energy Consultants
- Energy Efficiency Engineers
- Energy Transmission and Distribution Workers
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Lobbyists
- Environmental Planners
- Environmental Scientists
- Environmental Technicians
- Fuel Cell Engineers
- Fuel Cell Technicians
- Fuel Cell Technology Workers
- Futurists
- Geodetic Surveyors
- Geological Technicians
- Geologists
- Geophysicists
- 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
- Industrial Engineering Technicians
- Landmen
- Line Installers and Cable Splicers
- Materials Engineers
- Meter Readers, Utilities
- Methane/Landfill Gas Collection System Operators
- Methane/Landfill Gas Generation System Technicians
- Mining Engineers
- Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
- Nuclear Engineers
- Nuclear Reactor Operators and Technicians
- Petroleum Engineers
- Petroleum Technicians
- Power Plant Workers
- Radiation Protection Technicians
- Renewable Energy Careers
- Renewable Energy Engineers
- Renewable Energy Site Assessors
- Roustabouts
- Solar Energy Industry Workers
- Solar Energy Installation Managers
- Solar Energy Sales Representatives
- Solar Engineers
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
- Surveyors
- Wind Energy Engineers
- Wind Energy Industry Workers
- Wind Energy Operations Managers
- Wind Energy Project Managers