Solar Technician Schools in West Virginia

For solar technicians in West Virginia, it is essential to understand the fundamental concepts of solar energy and the components that comprise a solar photovoltaic system. Several training destinations teach all of these, and one of the things we do in the guide on this page is to introduce students to some of the top options.

We also carefully outline what candidates must do to prepare for their training destinations, the types of training arrangements that suit specific individuals, licensing possibilities, and certification options for those who wish to enhance their credibility.

Finally, the guide rounds up with an analysis of the annual average salary possibilities for solar technicians in West Virginia. It includes a few factors that can be optimized to improve these figures.

How to Become a Solar Technician in West Virginia

Prospective solar technicians in West Virginia can start their careers the right way by following the approach below.

Preparing for Training

A basic knowledge of mathematics, physics, and electrical subjects is highly beneficial for prospective solar technicians preparing for more advanced training. Candidates who hold a high school diploma or GED also have an easier time gaining admission to a top training institution.

Completing a College/Technical Program

Aspiring solar technicians in West Virginia can begin their education by completing an academic program. This is not compulsory by law, but it is an excellent way to understand the theories and fundamentals of the renewable energy world before entering the discipline.

Some employers across the state also value professionals who have attended an academic program and have a degree or certificate to prove it.

For those who would like to take this approach but have busy schedules, several online solar technician programs are available, allowing candidates to learn skills, prepare for certification, and secure entry-level employment.

Fine-Tuning Real-World Skills

It is possible to secure employment as a solar technician with only academic proficiency. However, candidates will have to spend some time working in an assistant position to acclimate to the real-world demands of the profession.

It is also possible and quite common to complete an apprenticeship program before securing employment as a solar technician, thereby developing the necessary real-world proficiency.

Licensure & Certification Requirements

West Virginia is one of the states across the country where professionals practicing as solar technicians don’t have a dedicated solar technician license to pursue. This means that regular tasks, such as installing solar panels, can be accomplished without a license.

Of course, many of a solar technician’s duties can overlap with those of electricians. This is why solar technicians in West Virginia performing electrical work related to solar installations must possess an electrician’s license or work under the supervision of a licensed professional.

The state also allows candidates to practice without certification. NABCEP, however, offers highly respected credentials for those who wish to become certified.

Choosing to become certified can enhance a solar technician’s credibility, increase potential earnings, expand networking opportunities, and more.

Top Solar Technician Schools in West Virginia

The following schools offer amazing training programs for future solar technicians in West Virginia.

Explore solar technician schools in West Virginia by city:

• Solar technician schools in Charleston

Salary & Career Outlook

The highest-paying cities to practice as a solar technician in West Virginia include the following:

• Beckley, with an annual average salary of $87,060;
• Falling Waters, with an annual average salary of $74,216; and
• Charleston, with an annual average salary of $64,099.

Without focusing on any specific factor, the annual average salary of solar technicians in the state can be divided as follows:

• Professionals in the top 10% manage an annual average salary of $98,123;
• Those in the bottom 10% earn an annual average salary of $57,645, while
• Candidates in the middle make an annual average salary of $75,209.

In addition to location, experience can also be a vital factor in determining the annual average salary of solar technicians in West Virginia. The nature of the employer and professional credentials are also critical factors.