Best places to get training to be a Solar Technician?

[endymion]

Hello!

I'm new to this forum and to solar power in general, though I have long been a strong advocate for renewable energy and environmental responsibility. Recently I've decided to pursue a career as a renewable energy technician focusing on solar power (PV or thermal? not sure yet...). Anyway, I'm pretty much starting from scratch with little to no construction/electrician background. Therefore I'm looking at some tech schools/community colleges that offer A.A.S. degrees in this field. This should hopefully give me the hands-on training and credentials it takes to land a green/solar job. The problem is that so many of the programs are new and after scouring the internet I can find little information about which schools offer quality programs (especially compared to each other). Some schools that get mentioned a lot are San Juan College in Farmington, NM, Lane Community College in Eugene, OR, and Red Rocks Community College in Lakewood, CO. I've spoken with the program directors of each these college's respective departments, but it's hard to get an objective point of view this way.

Do you guys know which schools offer the best training (for an A.A.S. degree, ideally)?

Have you heard of the three schools I mentioned? If so, what are your opinions about them?

How concerned would you be about enrolling in a program that just started within the last couple of years?

Am I going about this the wrong way? Is the A.A.S. degree not the best way to become a renewable energy technician/installer?

Thanks!

[netttech]

I personally don't know of any 'schools/courses', but personally, I think physical experience will outweigh whatever is written in books. Especially on the physical installation side.

I have watched some Utube videos of 'so-called' experts, face screwing racks on roofs which makes me cringe. I would fire anyone face-nailing/screwing anything on my roof...especially 'experts'.

Face nails/screws are roof leaks that 'WILL' happen at some point.

Good luck!

[DaveC]

We have a couple people on staff that have been through the San Juan College program. I'm sure they would be happy to speak to you about the program and their experiences there. Just drop me a line and I can get you their contact info if you would like to talk with them.

-Dave

[CHSSolar]

Solar Energy International

I have taken courses at the NC Solar Center and through SEI. My suggestion is to look into SEI, they are the grandaddy's of solar education and know what they are talking about, the published the first text book. Don't be fooled by all the courses offered around the country, a year ago they weren't there. Online classes can be good and informative, but pricey. Buy the books! Get hands on and attend. Also, consider getting your 30 hour OSHA safety card. All in all my education has taken a little over a year of going to classes, but the learning never stops.

[garybeck]

Solar Energy International

I know the people who run Solar Energy International and I would not hesitate to send people there who want to learn about solar. I believe their website is solarenergy.org. another one I like is the Solar Living Institute, I know those folks too. There's another one called "boots on the roof" I don't know them but I hear they're good.

one thing to consider is that if you are seeking employment in the solar energy industry, choose a program that prepares you for NABCEP certification.

good luck