Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to pivot into solar technology from a sustainable energy field, the resources below will help candidates in Indiana understand how to become successful solar technicians.
In addition to training insights, we explore tips on licensing and certification, joining solar companies, apprenticeships, and union-supported workforce programs active in the state. We also provide a list containing prominent programs to attend for a strong start.
To help readers plan long-term, we close out the guide with salary averages, job demand forecasts, and additional skills or credentials that can elevate your profile in this competitive but rewarding space.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Indiana
Prospective solar technicians in Indiana can start their careers on a solid path.
Formal Education
Most aspiring solar techs in Indiana will need some formal education to get started. Technical schools and community colleges, such as Ivy Tech Community College, offer certificate and associate degree programs in solar energy technology, renewable energy systems, or electrical technology.
Depending on the program, candidates could complete their training in 6–18 months and be job-ready soon after.
Learning On the Job: Apprenticeships & Field Work
Practical, hands-on training is a vital part of the process. In Indiana, many solar technicians learn their craft through apprenticeships or entry-level fieldwork under the supervision of experienced installers.
Organizations like the Indiana Solar Energy Industries Association (ISEIA) or trade unions can help find apprenticeship placements. These real-world experiences give candidates the chance to work with live systems, climb rooftops, and solve real customer issues—all while getting paid.
Specializing & Growing
As they gain experience, fresh solar technicians in Indiana might consider specializing in commercial solar systems, off-grid installation, or even solar project design and consulting. With the right mix of skill, reputation, and networking, solar technicians in the state can advance to supervisory roles or even launch their installation businesses.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
While Indiana doesn’t currently require a state-specific license to become a solar installer, candidates often choose to pursue certification on their own accord for career opportunities. For one, national certifications can make solar technicians in the state more attractive to employers.
It can also open the doors for better salaries and advanced skills acquisition through continuing education. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers a well-regarded certification that demonstrates a professional standard of competence and commitment.
Top Solar Technician Schools in Indiana
Candidates in Indiana may attend any of the following schools for robust solar technology education.
Ivy Tech Community College
Lafayette, IN Campus Only
Ivy Tech Community College provides a Renewable Energy Technology program with specialized solar photovoltaic (PV) systems coursework. It is available across multiple campuses and online, ideal for aspiring solar technicians seeking foundational and advanced knowledge in system design, solar panel installation, troubleshooting, electrical safety, and energy auditing.
Tuition
$178 - $348 per CreditContact
(888) 489-5463
info@ivytech.edu
Marian University
Online, IN Online Only
Marian University offers a self-paced online Solar Panel Installer training program with 40 course hours. The program takes around three months to complete.
Tuition
$1,395 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Indiana Tech
Online, IN Online Only
Indiana Tech offers an online NABCEP Certification PV Installation Professional training program that prepares candidates for renewable and solar energy systems. The program boasts in-depth solar coursework, including photovoltaic systems, solar thermal systems, and energy management.
Tuition
$2,395 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore solar technician schools in Indiana by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
At the start of their careers, solar technicians in Indiana may fall into the bottom 10% or average earning category. This is temporary, though, as there are several opportunities to work on optimizable factors, leading to a significant increase in yearly returns.
The Indeed data shows that the state’s professionals who are among the bottom 10% of solar technicians can make an annual average salary of $39,658. In comparison, those who are among the top 10% can make an annual average salary of $75,453.
Those who are in the median category (which is the most common) usually earn an annual average salary of $54,702, in line with the national average.
Focusing on location, which is one of the factors that can help candidates improve their yearly earnings, we have the top destinations to work as solar technicians in Indiana:
- Fort Wayne, with an annual average salary of $89,396;
- Evansville, with an annual average salary of $112,472;
- Terre Haute, with an annual average salary of $71,156; and
- Lafayette has an annual average salary of $71,156.