Solar Technician Schools in Oklahoma

One of the primary duties of a solar technician is to help install solar panels on the roof of a residential home or commercial building. However, professionals in the field will be expected to perform additional tasks in the process, including lifting heavy materials, climbing ladders, and working on the roofs.

Of course, all of these require rigorous training. The following guide highlights the main approach that prospective solar technicians in Oklahoma take to develop the necessary proficiency and become successful solar technicians in the state.

It also explores other important aspects of the process, including licensing, certification, and salary optimization.

How to Become a Solar Technician in Oklahoma

The requirements needed to become a successful solar technician in Oklahoma are usually as follows:

Choosing a Training Route

One of the first and most important things to do on a journey to become a successful solar technician in Oklahoma is to choose a training route. The following are considered to be the most popular alternatives.

• Academic Route—The academic route is a popular option for prospective solar technicians because it allows them to learn in a formal environment, earn a degree, and even enjoy career services. Depending on the credential (certificate, diploma, or associate degree), programs can take a few months to two years to complete.

Some technician training programs may also prepare students for national certification exams.

• Apprenticeship Route—The apprenticeship route is another popular option for aspiring solar technicians for different reasons. Apprenticeship programs allow students to learn on the job, sometimes under close supervision from practicing professionals who also offer mentorships.

This kind of training also prepares candidates for real-world job conditions, such as rooftop work, system calibration, and electrical testing. Lastly, apprenticeship programs are very useful because they allow students to earn while they are learning.

Employment

Once they are trained and confident enough to carry out the duties of a Solar technician in an actual work environment, candidates can start seeking employment. After a few years of experience, it is also possible to ultimately start a business and become a fully-fledged solar contractor in Oklahoma.

Continuing Education

Continuing education is critical to help solar technicians keep up with advancing technologies. Regulations are also evolving, which is another reason why continuing education is so important.

Certification can be a great way to facilitate continuing education, and we explore that further below.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

As a resident of Oklahoma, it is possible to start a career as a solar technician without having a license. For instance, those who focus on only structural installations without any electrical work will be able to take on professional contracts without needing to obtain a state license.

However, when electrical work is involved, solar techs in Oklahoma will need to have an electrician’s license or work under a licensed electrician. The governing body in this case is the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board.

As for the issue of certification, solar technicians in Oklahoma who would like to enjoy the benefits of having a professional credential can earn one from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Doing so is beneficial but not compulsory.

Top Solar Technician Schools in Oklahoma

Below are the most notable institutions with appropriate training programs for aspiring solar technicians in Oklahoma.

Explore solar technician schools in Oklahoma by city:

• Solar technician schools in Oklahoma City

Salary & Career Outlook

Oklahoma solar technicians usually earn an annual average salary of around $60,873 to $252,383. On the lower end are professionals who are just starting and are still working on important factors to improve their yearly earnings.

On the upper end are those who have already done this. There is also a third category, which is the most common. These are the median earners making an annual average salary of around $123,690.

Business structure, professional credentials, experience, and location are factors that can be optimized to improve yearly returns as a solar technician in Oklahoma. When it comes to the best locations for high salaries, Tulsa leads the way with an annual average salary of $144,690.

Also among the top destinations is Oklahoma City, with an annual average salary of $123,203.