Students in the 548 Foundation’s Clean Energy Training Program build a mock roof as part of their overall education to enter the solar industry | Photo by Zubaer Khan/Sun-Times
For over a year now, the 548 Foundation has provided training for Illinois residents through their Clean Energy Training Program. This 10- to 13-week course allows students to learn crucial skills and attain certifications that help them land jobs in Illinois’ swiftly growing solar industry.
The goal of the training program is to uplift those who are facing barriers in the workforce, such as limited education, low literacy and criminal records. Since April of 2023, more than 60 students have graduated, and 27 new trainees will begin this fall as part of a full cohort.
“The 548 Foundation is providing a valuable and needed pathway to help extend opportunities in solar energy to new communities as we build a clean energy future for all,” said Mark Raeder, Principal of Summit Ridge Energy, which provided financial backing to help launch the training program. “We have the unique honor to support a program that is not only boosting jobs in the solar industry, but that is also making renewables energy a viable and accessible resource.”
Not only are students supported by mentors and given the proper resources to succeed in the clean energy industry, but they are also paid $18 an hour to take the classes on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The foundation also offers funding for participants who may have additional challenges—with transportation, housing, childcare and more—that could prevent them from completing the program.
Throughout each course, trainees can earn professional certifications and receive help preparing for job interviews with Illinois solar and construction companies. A career fair also takes place after each course with companies hiring for solar industry positions, and over 80% of students report getting jobs afterwards that pay an average of $24 an hour. With over 5,600 solar energy jobs in Illinois, demand for workers is rapidly expanding. The landmark Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) has created a wave of momentum for the industry, making this a prime time for anyone looking for a job in solar to gain pertinent skills.
“It is more important now than ever before that we have a hand in creating an equitable solar workforce,” said Lesley McCain, Executive Director at Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA). “With CEJA being in effect for a few years now, this industry is seeing immense growth, and it’s really exciting to imagine the future and how many more solar jobs will continue to become available throughout Illinois.”
Now, with the additional investment that was recently announced by Governor J.B. Pritzker, 1,000 new jobs in the solar energy field will be created over the next three years. Illinois’ commitment to solar energy job training is another step in the right direction as students and trainees seek to be a part of the bright future of clean energy.
Learn More
For a deeper look into this incredible program, we encourage you to read the full story from the Chicago Sun-Times.
If you are interested in a career in solar, you can apply to join the 548 Energy Institute here.
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