As solar energy and solar technology become more popular and affordable, the demand for professionals in the industry continues to rise to astronomical proportions. However, solar technicians enjoy a special place as the conduit between the manufacturing personnel and the final consumer of all the different fields in the industry.
To become a solar technician in Pennsylvania, interested individuals must acquire training and follow a few state-specific requirements before starting their careers.
Below we look at all of these requirements while examining alternatives to make the process more straightforward and enjoyable. We also discuss the potential salary that an aspiring solar technician in Pennsylvania can look forward to.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Pennsylvania
Solar technicians in Pennsylvania must meet a few basic requirements and then complete a training program before securing licensing and certification. The basic needs involve being a high school graduate with a diploma to show for it or having a GED equivalent in its place.
As for the training requirements, below are the three general methods by which an aspiring solar technician can obtain adequate training.
On-the-Job Training
Usually, on-the-job training is provided by employers willing to train their employees from the start, even if they have yet to gain prior experience. This is also the best approach for those with experience working in related Industries before shifting to solar technology.
Apprenticeship Programs
Additionally, on-the-job training is available through apprenticeship programs organized by unions and trade organizations. These programs don’t necessarily equate to employment but simply serve as a means to bring up future solar technicians in a real-world environment under the supervision of experienced instructors.
Technical Training Schools
Lastly, colleges, trade schools, and vocational institutions also provide formal training programs for aspiring solar technicians to learn the craft in a structured environment.
Technical training programs incorporate many classroom training mixed with practical hands-on sessions.
Complementary Skills
Along with technical training from any of these places, solar technicians will have a better chance of success if they possess a handful of other skills.
These include physical stamina, attention to detail, a problem-solving mindset, the ability to see things differently, and safety-mindedness.
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Top Solar Technician Schools in Pennsylvania
Below are some of the top solar technology training programs for interested individuals in the state to consider:
1. Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology
Aspiring solar technicians in Pennsylvania would do well to consider the Solar Photovoltaic Technician/Installer program at the Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology. The program operates on a NABCEP curriculum and can be completed in 7 months. Accepted candidates can secure entry-level employment in several solar energy fields.
2. Solar Energy International
Solar Energy International, a nonprofit organization, offers an engaging online program for aspiring solar technicians who need help to make it to physical campuses. The school’s Fundamentals of Photovoltaic Design and Installation course consists of nine compulsory courses and a four-day laboratory session for hands-on training.
3. Penn State World Campus
Lastly, aspiring solar technicians in Pennsylvania can acquire high-quality solar technology training from the Penn State World Campus at the Outreach Building University Park in Pennsylvania.
This program consists of 12 credits and takes place predominantly online. Topics include solar energy conversion theories, design tools, financing tools, solar resource assessment, etc.
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Licensure Requirements
Pennsylvania has no law mandating a contractor’s license for solar installations at the state level. The duty of setting licensure requirements usually falls on the local municipalities.
Once the appropriate local authorities have satisfied these licensure requirements, solar technicians in the state may also consider obtaining certifications to further their careers.
In this regard, they may consider the following organizations and their credentials:
- Electronics Technicians Association - Photovoltaic Installer - Level 1,
- North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners - PV Installation Professional (PVIP), and
- Roof Integrated Solar Energy - Roof System Installer.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to data obtained from a survey carried out by Indeed, the projected salary for solar technicians in Pennsylvania is distributed thus:
- Average annual wage - $54,990 (in line with the national average)
- Top 10% - $71,839
- Bottom 10% - $40,772
Factors that influence how much salary a solar technician in Pennsylvania will earn yearly include years spent on the job, a particular location in the state, type and nature of employment, kind and nature of employers, certifications & credentials, and other factors.
Solar technicians in the state will be glad to know that the projection for the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is highly favorable.
Data released by the Bureau shows that the demand for solar technicians will increase by 27% between 2021 to 2031.
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