A 13-week solar training course in Chicago is offering new career opportunities to individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. The initiative, forming a part of a $30 million project by the 548 Foundation, aims to create 1,000 solar jobs in the city’s South and West Side neighborhoods. This effort is crucial as it provides not just job prospects but also a pathway to sustainable energy solutions that can lower living costs.
Illinois has passed two significant clean energy laws since 2017, which mandate equity in job opportunities. The initial rollout faced criticism for failing to connect trainees with jobs. However, the 2021 Climate & Equitable Jobs Act has led to more refined training programs. Employers are required to hire a growing percentage of equity-eligible applicants, a target that will reach 30% by 2030. This has led to more effective partnerships between training programs and employers, ensuring that more trainees find relevant employment.
Many companies have struggled to find local talent amidst Illinois’ growing solar sector. The 548 program stands out for its support for trainees and its effectiveness in job placements. The hands-on training includes life skills, solar installation techniques, and rigorous daily schedules. The program also provides ongoing support to graduates, ensuring a smoother transition to their new careers.
Comprehensive Support
The program’s holistic approach includes financial aid and other support services to assist trainees. This could involve anything from child care support to car repairs, removing barriers that might prevent individuals from completing the training. This wraparound support is crucial for success, especially for those facing systemic challenges.
“There are so many barriers, it might be child care or your car is impounded,” said Jacqueline Williams of the Restoring Sovereignty Project.
The rigorous nature of the program is evident in its demanding schedule, which includes early morning starts and hands-on boot camps. Yet, the support system in place helps ensure a majority of trainees can overcome these challenges and graduate successfully.
Equipped for Success
Graduates of the program earn multiple certifications, such as OSHA 30 and NABCEP, making them attractive hires. This comprehensive curriculum covers both technical and soft skills, preparing participants for long-term careers in the solar industry. The training also serves as a pre-apprenticeship qualifier, paving the way for union jobs in various trades.
“The students might know more than a company’s foreman knows. It’s a win-win situation. Solar is a nascent industry, there’s so much opportunity in this space,” said Michael Thomas, a program instructor.
The program’s hands-on approach and robust support structure have already produced promising results. Graduates have found jobs, and the training program has proven to be life-changing for many participants. They are not just learning a trade but gaining a sense of confidence and purpose that will serve them well in their futures.
The 548 Foundation’s solar training program is making significant strides in offering sustainable and equitable job opportunities in Chicago. By focusing on comprehensive training and continuous support, the initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of the solar industry but also creates long-term career pathways for underrepresented communities. Employers benefit from a well-trained, enthusiastic workforce, while trainees gain essential skills and certifications, leading to stable and rewarding careers.
