Classes

Course Info

Length
7 Months (600 Clock Hours)

Schedule
Monday 8 am-1 pm; Tuesday-Friday 8 am-2 pm
(Summer schedule) Monday- Thursday 8 am - 2:45 pm

Solar Photovoltaic System Design Standards
CASAS (Reading and Math) Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE)  Scores: 239 in Reading, 584 Language and 236 Math OR meet TABE exemption (refer to Admissions and Testing)  

The Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) program provides students with the technical knowledge and skills needed to adapt a solar photovoltaic design; conduct a site assessment; read blueprints; and install, maintain, and troubleshoot a solar photovoltaic system. Students will learn basic electricity concepts in DC and AC electrical circuits, voltage, and electric codes, as well as practice hands-on basic residential wiring. Solar installation site assessments and design skills will be developed through hand sketches, use of IT Technology and Computer Aided Drafting software.

2020-2021 Curriculum Framework

The following books and supplies are required for this program. All items listed on the fee sheet (see link below) are available at the Erwin Technical College Bookstore. The ISBN number is located after each textbook. For the most current fee sheet, please contact the Student Services Office, Financial Aid Office or our Bookstore. 

Book and Supply Information  
For the most current list of books and supplies, please contact the Student Services Office, Financial Aid Office or our Bookstore. 

Certifications
During the program, students have the opportunity to earn OSHA safety certification. Upon completion of the program, students will be scheduled to take the North American Board of Certified Practioners (NABCEP) Photovoltaic (PV) Associate certification exam.

Employment/Career Opportunities 
Graduates are qualified for employment as entry-level installers of residential and commercial solar energy applications. A history of felony convictions or substance abuse may adversely affect your ability to gain employment in this field. We encourage you to consider your personal history when making appropriate career choices

Salaries
Salaries range from $16.67-$24.00 per hour. Salaries may be higher in other states. Source: FL Agency for Workforce Innovation, Labor Market Statistics

Program Cost
The estimated total program cost is approximately $3,442.00 which includes tuition, estimated books, supplies, fees, exams and certification costs. Prices are subject to change. See Erwin Technical College Summary Sheet for current cost information. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.

Class Schedule
The Solar Photovoltaic program begins every 7 months. Classes meet Monday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Program Standards
Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) scores of 576 or higher in Reading, 584 Language and 596 Math.   For the current testing schedule, please refer to our website or call Erwin Technical College.

Frequently Asked Questions

What job opportunities exist in this field?
Jobmarkets in this field vary widely from state to state.  More information at www.seia.org/jobs,  solar-jobs or thesolarfoundation.org .

What is the earning potential in this field?
The entry-level starting rate is approximately $16.67-24.00 per hour depending on the company. Salaries can top $50,000 per year after 4–5 years of experience.  Experienced installers (graduates) have been able to subcontract Photovoltaic Installation on a per/job, per/watt basis.

Is freelance/contract work a possibility?
Yes, it is possible. Generally, it is necessary to spend a few years working for a company before employees are qualified to work on their own.

Are math computations used in this program? 
Solar studies are calculated by the application algebraic equations, percentage, and usage of geometry and trigonometry.

Is job placement available upon graduation?
Advisory committee representatives and teachers provide students with guidance and recommendations. When employers notify the school of job openings, those vacancies are posted on Erwin’s online portal. Students will also visit Renewable Energy Employers during the program to better expose students to the workplace.

How can I learn more about this career field?
More information>> 

For questions regarding the program please contact:  donna.matassini@hcps.net