Solar Technician Schools in Tucson

Solar power remains the fastest-growing energy source - and for good reasons too. It is clean, renewable, and, in recent times, cost-effective and incredibly easy to access. Solar technicians are in more demand than ever for all these reasons.

But of course, to become a solar technician in Tucson, Arizona, and anywhere else, you must first obtain proper training from an approved institution. Knowing the best available options can be challenging, but that’s where we come in.

Below we look at some of the very best solar technician schools in and around Tucson, Arizona, along with a few notes on what to look for in a solar tech school in the first place.

How to Become a Solar Technician in Tucson

Becoming a solar technician in Tucson, Arizona, requires having a high school diploma or GED and a driver’s license. Those with all of these can seek employment directly, even if they have little experience in the field.

They may acquire the rest of what they’ll need on the job.

Those without experience may have to enroll in a college or vocational program. These programs are often fast-tracked and can be completed in under a year. But of course, some may take longer.

Certification is always welcome for solar technicians after training because it helps them stand out and may lead to higher pay. And while certification is optional, licensing is not.

All professional solar technicians in Tucson must obtain a license from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

Top Solar Technician Schools in Tucson, Arizona

Having highlighted all the important steps in becoming a Tucson solar technician, below are some training programs to consider. These include on-campus college programs, vocational institutes, online programs, and private companies.

1. Pima Community College

Pima Community College in Tucson offers a high-quality Energy Technology Certificate program designed to train aspiring solar technicians nationwide. The program was developed along with Tucson Electric Power and Southwest Gas.

Students are prepared for employment as entry-level workers and may apply for the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Essentials credentials once they graduate.

Successful applicants can choose between the Energy Technology Level I and the Energy Technology Level II Certificates.

2. Arizona Western College

Another viable option for aspiring solar technicians in Tucson looking for a high-quality training program nearby is the Solar Photovoltaic Installation program and certificate offered by Arizona Western College.

The school’s team of experienced instructors provides training on topics such as basic electrical theory, panel positioning and tie-in to the commercial grid, proper code requirements, and more.

By graduating, students will have the skills to work as solar panel installers and pass the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) photovoltaic entry-level examination.

Students can choose between an associate of applied science degree program or an occupational certificate program.

3. Online Options

Those who desire a more flexible training option may opt for any available online solar technology training programs nationwide. While there is no shortage of options, some of the most popular alternatives include the training programs Solar Energy International, SolPowerPeople, and Solairgen offer.

All of these programs can be completed online and offer the opportunity to acquire additional hands-on training. They also offer the opportunity to acquire more credentials, such as the NABCEP and NCCER certifications.

Most online courses in solar technology last between 24 to 40 hours. Many of these programs also provide continuing education training for employed solar techs who wish to sharpen their skills and keep up with recent advancements in the field.

4. Private Companies

As mentioned earlier, there are more viable paths to becoming a solar technician in Tucson than going through a college program. Those who wish to acquire direct training on the job may apply directly to private companies.

Thankfully, many companies are willing to offer this training, with some even having dedicated programs designed to bring up new technicians in the specific philosophy of the company.