Workforce Development
Organizations providing business support services, including workforce development boards and American Job Centers
Education & Training
Institutions such as K-12, community colleges, universities, short term training programs, career technical education
Economic Development
Agencies focused on business attraction, retention, and expansion such as government agencies and chambers of commerce
Community Organizations
Additional nonprofits and community agencies that address challenges individuals face in obtaining skills and employment
SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS
Sector partnerships are efforts among industry stakeholders to collectively engage the public workforce development system. Convened at local or regional scales, sector partnerships address common workforce challenges and identify collaborative solutions.
WORK-BASED LEARNING
Employer-trainer partnerships for hands-on education are a key part of supporting a job-ready solar workforce. Work-based learning includes a range of employer-led activities related to career development, from informal, short-term engagements to more structured skill-based programs.
THE BUSINESS CASE for solar workforce development
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Develop a coordinated, cohesive industry voice to communicate labor market information and influence policy
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Externalize the cost of training and hiring with business support services and funds for targeted skill development
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Plan for long-term stability by aligning training curriculum with actual workforce needs
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Improve localized talent development, attract strong candidates, and retain quality employees
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Support regional capacity for adaptive management as solar markets continue to expand and evolve
Industry-led initiatives that:
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IMPROVE communication among regional networks,
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INTEGRATE solar careers into the existing workforce development system, and
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INVEST in the skill sets of people who power the industry…
…are essential to build capacity as solar continues to lead job growth of the American energy sector.
