Solar Technician Schools in Minnesota

Solar technicians are called upon to carry out various duties, all of which safely help consumers take advantage of solar technology. As technology continues to grow, the demand and capability of solar technicians also do the same.

The state of Minnesota remains one of the most appealing destinations for aspiring solar technicians across the country. Here, they have a straightforward platform to launch their careers and enjoy significant job growth opportunities.

The guide below seeks to make the journey easier for candidates by providing an overview of all the key considerations involved in the process. These include, among other things, the individual steps required, the certification and licensing requirements, and the top solar technology training programs in this state.

How to Become a Solar Technician in Minnesota

The following are the considerations needed to become a solar technician in Minnesota.

High School Diploma or GED

Education and training for aspiring solar technicians in Minnesota begin with a high school diploma or GED. These are the basic educational requirements that training programs and employers often ask for.

Candidates with a solid understanding of basic mathematics, physics, and electronics may also have an edge over the field.

Technical Colleges

Candidates may enroll in solar energy technology programs at community colleges and technical colleges across Minnesota for their actual solar technology training. In the upcoming section below, we will explore some of the most prominent options.

While these schools have solar technology programs, some may offer general renewable energy programs dealing with wind, geothermal, and solar energy specializations.

Training on the Job

Candidates may acquire on-the-job training instead of attending a solar energy technology training program at a trade or technical school. Some companies in the state are willing to bring up new solar technicians by assigning them to learn under experienced technicians in the state.

There are also apprenticeship programs offering on-the-job training opportunities.

These programs focus on hands-on experience with some classroom training. Some may also allow candidates to earn even while they are still learning.

Improve Career Prospects

Before seeking employment, an aspiring solar energy technician in Minnesota can obtain professional credentials to improve their prospects. We take a look at some possible options below.

Candidates are also expected to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field through continuing education.

Explore Trades with Similar Paths

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

Solar technicians in Minnesota are expected to have an electrical contractor license. Companies that take on solar photovoltaic installation contracts are expected to register as residential building contractors and remodelers.

As mentioned earlier, candidates may also consider professional credentials for better career prospects.

Some popular professional organizations offering recognized credentials for solar technicians in Minnesota include the Electronics Technicians Association, offering the Photovoltaic Installer - Level 1 credential; the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, offering the PV installation Professional (PVIP) credential; and Roof Integrated Solar Energy, offering the Roof System Installer credential.

Top Solar Technician Schools in Minnesota

The following are some prominent institutions where you can receive training as an aspiring solar technician in Minnesota.

Explore Solar Technician Schools in Minnesota by City:

• Solar Technician Schools in Minneapolis

Salary & Career Outlook

Solar Technicians in Minnesota enjoy an annual average salary of close to $50,502, that is, if they fall in the midpoint of certain optimizable factors such as location, experience, credentials, and more.

Consequently, it is possible to earn below or above this figure. For instance, solar technicians in the state who find themselves among the top 10% of earners can take home as high as $66,399 in average salary every year. In comparison, those among the bottom 10% may earn around $38,411 annually.

Regardless of which earning bracket solar technicians in the state fall into, they may look forward to favorable growth potential, seeing as the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 27% jump in demand for professionals in the field from 2021 to 2031.