Tech Directions - August 2007 - (Page 29) Training High School • Mathematics • English • Electricity • Technology education • Drafting/blueprint reading • Applied physics • Computers • Chemistry • Woodworking Summer jobs as construction helpers for plumbers, electricians, roofers, or swimming pool/spa contractors are good ways to qualify as trainees. energy principles, energy storage and transfer technologies, testing and inspection procedures, system maintenance procedures, and report preparation. Most solar energy technicians have some previous experience in basic drafting, welding, plumbing, and electricity, which they have gained from working in the construction field. It is possible, however, to get a job in the field with very little experience. Most renewable energy manufacturers sponsor intensive training sessions on their products. Their employees receive onthe-job training and begin by helping experienced workers. Those interested in the design, planning, or research aspects of solar energy should enter a community college or two-year vocational school program leading to an associate degree. Such programs provide practical and theoretical courses, including math, science, photovoltaics, solar-thermal systems, and solar architecture. Postsecondary Training is becoming more and more prominent. An increasing number of universities, community colleges, and technical institutes have begun to integrate renewable energy courses into their existing curriculums. Programs range from associate degree programs to semester-long and online training courses. An associate degree in Solar Energy Technology + Technician prepares students to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills while working with engineers. The program includes instruction in solar Certification Earning the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Entry Level Certificate demonstrates that students have achieved basic knowledge, comprehension and application of key terms and concepts of solar electric system operations. The certificate enables one to enter the workforce for the required two years of on-the-job training and to eventually take the NABCEP certifying exam. Apprenticeship Program Many workers in this field are experienced construction trade workers who have completed an apprenticeship program and have received special training in solar energy technology through programs offered by trade associations, vocational schools, and community colleges. These programs cover system installation, maintenance, and retrofitting and usually offer a certificate of completion. Working Conditions Installers usually work a 40-hour week. Much of that time is spent outside and overtime work may be required when the weather is good. Layoffs can occur when the economy is bad or when the weather does not permit outside work. The work can be physically demanding and requires the confidence to work on rooftops and the stamina to work in cramped quarters. Lifting heavy tools and equipment is frequently required. Workers must often travel from site to site to install or maintain solar projects in homes, buildings, or thermal generators. The employer usually provides tools, but technicians may be required to supply their own work clothing and safety helmets. Advancement Opportunities • Crew leader • Project manager • Owner of a consulting or installation business Employment Outlook Jobs should grow over the next several years. Practical ways to use solar energy continue to evolve and growth is occurring in photovoltaic systems that heat homes. As architects incorporate passive collection and cooling methods into new homes and buildings, job opportunities for solar energy systems installers should expand. In addition, air pollution control districts in some densely populated counties require all new housing to use solar hot water systems. Installers skillful in both systems will have the most opportunities. Professional Associations Solar Energy Solutions www.siemenssolar.com American Solar Energy Society 303-443-3130 www.ases.org Solar Energy Industries Association 202-682-0556 www.seia.org Solar Living Institute 707-744-2017 www.solarliving.org www.techdirections.com CAREER DIRECTIONS 29 http://www.siemenssolar.com http://www.seia.org http://www.ases.org http://www.solarliving.org http://www.techdirections.com
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