Solar technicians in Colorado who begin their careers now can look forward to a bright future thanks to the incredible projections and opportunities for growth offered by the solar energy industry.
Aspiring candidates can also take advantage of straightforward entry requirements, especially compared to other occupations. The biggest challenge is knowing what is required of you and charting a course that involves attending the best possible training programs and obtaining proper certification and licensing afterward.
To help make these even smoother, we have provided an in-depth guide below containing the best options regarding educational requirements, possible training programs, salary projections, and more.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Colorado
Here are the steps you must follow to become a solar technician in Colorado:
Basic Requirements
The state of Colorado has no essential requirement for its solar technicians. Employers and trade programs, however, often ask that students possess a high school diploma or GED. Proficiency in mathematics, physics, and computer science also comes in handy during a training program and a career in solar technology.
Training
Training and education are The most critical steps in any journey in solar technology. For this, aspiring technicians have two options - to get trained while they work or to attend a formal training program and then worry about securing employment afterward.
On-the-Job Training
There are employers and trade unions in Colorado willing to bring up new solar technicians under their wings. They provide mentorship and hands-on training until the trainees are ready to work independently.
These arrangements often last for around eight months or a year. It is also possible to earn money while you learn to become a solar technician through this approach.
Certificate & Degree Programs
Aspiring solar technicians in Colorado who wish to earn a degree or certificate after training should consider enrolling in a formal training program offered by a community college or trade school.
There are numerous advantages to choosing this approach, but most importantly, graduates of formal training programs usually have an easier time securing employment.
Certifications
Certification is not mandatory for a solar technician, but there are benefits to getting one, such as the opportunity it provides for growth and a better salary.
Some popular organizations certifying solar technicians include Roof Integrated Solar Energy, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, and the Electronics Technicians Association.
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Top Solar Technician Schools in Colorado
1. Solar Energy International
Solar Energy International offers a robust online training program for aspiring solar technicians. Even though the program is available to individuals and companies all over the country, the hands-on training campus is located in Colorado, making it a perfect alternative for residents of the state to consider.
Usually, the program is employed by companies nationwide to train employees and provide crucial continuing education needed to keep up with the latest advancements in the field.
Training topics include solar electric design and installation, advanced PV multimode and microgrid design, tools, and techniques for operations and maintenance, among others.
2. Grid Alternatives
Grid Alternatives is known for its high-quality training programs available to Colorado residents. According to the organization’s official website, the program was designed to allow individuals to join Colorado’s growing green workforce by attending the Grid Alternatives Solar Training Academy.
Established in 2017, the program combines classroom instructions with rigorous hands-on training sessions. Students will have acquired the hard and soft skills needed to succeed by graduation, along with industry-recognized certifications and networking opportunities.
Furthermore, individuals accepted into the program are paid for the two weeks of training. The program also tries its best to secure employment for its graduates.
Explore Solar Technician Schools by City:
Licensure Requirements
Two bodies are responsible for licensing solar technicians in Colorado – the Department of Regulatory Agencies and the Colorado Electrical Board.
The state boards issue a general contractors license, but technicians are advised to consult specific local/county agencies for additional licenses specific to solar technicians.
Salary and Job Outlook
The BLS predicts more demand for solar technicians from now till 2031. The exact figure of 27% is significantly faster than the average for other occupations. As expected, factors influencing this rise include the continual adoption of solar photovoltaic systems.
As for the actual salary that comes with the job, solar technicians in Colorado earn an average salary of $47,561. Entry-level workers may earn as low as $35,008 initially but can go up to as high as $64,615 with more time and experience on the job.
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