Solar technology is still relatively new, with various discoveries made every day. Solar technicians in Virginia Beach, Virginia, need to keep in touch with these advancements and enroll in a training program to become introduced to them in the first place.
Below, we have highlighted some of the top training programs for aspiring solar technicians in Virginia Beach, all with unique offerings. We discuss what they offer and what candidates may look forward to.
By using these details, candidates can make the best decision to receive complete training and start their careers on the right path.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Virginia Beach
Although this is not a law by any means, most schools and employers in Virginia Beach will ask that aspiring solar technicians must be at least 18 years old and have been high school graduates with a diploma or GED equivalent.
Candidates may apply for admission into a college or vocational school program to obtain valuable degrees or certificates. Candidates may opt for apprenticeship programs to obtain job training with possible mentorship opportunities.
Some employers also allow individuals to learn on the job and earn an income as they learn. After training, candidates may pursue certification from NABCEP to enhance their credibility.
Even though Virginia Beach has no licensing requirements, certain projects may require permits from the local building department.
Top Solar Technician Schools in Virginia Beach, Virginia
The following are the top destinations to receive high-quality solar technology training in Virginia Beach.
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Piedmont, Virginia Community College is one of the most popular destinations for training as an aspiring solar technician in Virginia Beach and the rest of the state. The school offers a solar technician training program courtesy of its Workforce Training Center.
Students are prepared for entry-level employment in various fields, such as residential solar system installation, system design, and maintenance of PV systems. Topics of focus include basics of electricity, markets and applications, system components, sizing principles, safety basics, performance analysis, and module analysis, among others.
Candidates must be at least 18 years old on the first day of classes and have a sound command of the English language.
Solairgen
Solairgen offers a solar installation technician program comprising 30 hours of training and comprehensive hands-on instructions at a workshop. Candidates can secure employment after completing the program.
They will also enjoy a straightforward path to becoming a certified solar technician through the NABCEP Associate Installer credential. The program can be completed in a self-paced manner and is administered in a hybrid format, which means candidates will participate in both online classes and real-world workshops for hands-on experience.
The program also incorporates additional learning modalities, including review quizzes, laboratory projects, narrated slides, and several integrated videos.
Explore detailed steps, education, and Licensing requirements:
Solar Workgroup of West Virginia
Solar Workgroup of West Virginia offers courses designed to bring up fresh sets of capable solar technicians while preparing them for NABCEP certification. The program is offered in conjunction with Mountain Empire Community College.
Candidates will receive comprehensive instructions through text-based and visual-oriented materials.
Virginia Highlands Community College
Virginia Highlands Community College allows candidates to begin their careers as solar technicians by earning a certificate. Known officially as the Certificate in Solar Energy program, candidates are taught about key topics in the field while being prepared for the NABCEP Entry Level Solar Certification.
Topics of focus here include programmable controls, power distribution, controls, mechanical systems, and maintenance of industrial machinery. Some unique features why students choose this program include affordability, strong transfer arrangements with 30+ colleges and universities, and an optimal 17:1 student-instructor ratio.
Students also enjoy job placement assistance and career services with free academic mentoring.
Imagine Solar
Imagine Solar offers online training for aspiring solar technicians all over the country. The program is notable for its impressive training materials, including 3 distinct categories.
The first category deals with solar PV system design and installation principles. It is enough to help candidates secure employment and on-the-job training opportunities. The second is the advanced solar business and technical sales designed to help candidates manage the business side of the profession.
Candidates may also complete the trifecta by applying for the advanced solar PV systems and NABCEP certification course. This is designed to help students become familiar with more advanced topics and prepare for NABCEP certification.
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