Aspiring solar technicians in Michigan must be prepared to receive extensive training to become familiar with the fundamentals of solar technology. They must also be able to cultivate additional skills, such as interpersonal and communication skills.
Lastly, due to the nature of the job, solar technicians also tend to travel a lot. As such, this is another area where interested individuals in the state must prepare themselves.
Of course, it is also worth mentioning that the field is advantageous, with solid projections for the coming decade. Anyone ready to embark upon his journey to become a solar technician in Michigan will be glad to know that below, we have highlighted every consideration needed to start their careers on the best possible path.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Michigan
At the most basic level, all aspiring technicians must start their career as professional solar technicians in Michigan with a high-school diploma or GED. However, seeing as the field is getting increasingly competitive, It is common now for employers to ask for higher-level degrees of training.
Below are some of the most popular training routes to start a successful solar technician career in Michigan:
College Programs
Aspiring solar technicians who wish to receive a formal certificate or an associate degree may consider enrolling in solar technology programs offered by colleges and trade schools. These programs last between a few months to a couple of years, depending on the degree or certificate in sight.
On-the-Job Training
On-the-job training is another alternative to acquiring the skills needed to become a successful solar technician in Michigan. Generally, this form of training is offered by apprenticeship programs, potential employers, and systems manufacturers.
Apprenticeship
The first destination to receive on-the-job training as an aspiring solar technician in Michigan is to consider applying for apprenticeship programs offered by trade unions or government initiatives.
Employer On-the-Job Training
Some solar technician employers arrange for individuals to receive on-the-job training at their companies on not only the general principles of solar technology and solar power but also specific methods and strategies the company uniquely employs.
Systems Manufacturer
Lastly, some systems manufacturers may also organize on-the-job training for practicing and aspiring solar technicians to teach them about their specific solar components. This arrangement allows the systems manufacturer to popularize their products while helping new and existing solar technicians improve their skills in the field.
Consider trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
According to the Bureau of Construction Codes and Administration, aspiring solar technicians in the state of Michigan have two licenses to care about.
The first is the Photovoltaic System License, while the second is the Solar License. The photovoltaic systems license applies to those installing solar panels for energy generation, while the solar permit applies to those using solar panels as heating elements.
Even though certification is not mandatory for solar technicians in Michigan, professionals can acquire one anyway to improve their career opportunities and network with other professionals. The most popular certification option for solar technicians in Michigan is the one offered by NABCEP - the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
Top Solar Technician Schools in Michigan
The top solar technician schools in Michigan include the following:
Northwestern Michigan College
Northwestern Michigan College offers aspiring solar technicians in Michigan the opportunity to earn a certificate in renewable energy technology. Before they graduate, they will have become experts in solar photovoltaic systems installation and maintenance.
Muskegon Community College
Muskegon Community College is another top-quality destination in Michigan that offers solar technology training. The school also provides a wind technology certificate in conjunction with this program. Still, candidates can simply focus on the solar aspect while acquiring additional knowledge that may be useful.
Monroe County Community College
Lastly, interested candidates may also opt for the solar technology program offered by the Applied Science and Engineering Technology Division of Monroe County Community College. This program teaches solar photovoltaic system installation, maintenance, repair, and upgrade.
Explore Solar Technician schools by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
As an aspiring solar technician in Michigan, you may look forward to earning an annual average salary of $21,611. This is the figure obtained in a survey of solar technicians in the state and is more pertinent to those just starting their careers.
Those in the midpoint of their career tend to earn closer to an annual average salary of $47,888, while those in the top 10% can earn an average yearly salary of up to $106,115.
The factors affecting a solar technician’s earnings in Michigan include experience, location, credentials, and the company the technician works for.
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