As the solar sector expands, more and more trained professionals are needed to keep up with demand. Meanwhile, the U.S. military is shrinking, with around 200,000 veterans leaving each year. After a career in the armed forces, you might be interested in volunteering for an organization that can put your skills to good use. One of the best ways to put your skills to use is to start a business as a solar contractor. The solar industry is in great demand and offers promising work opportunities, making it an excellent choice for military veterans. A job as a solar contractor will allow you to put your skills to use while expanding your knowledge and earning potential. The variety of your work makes the adjustment to civilian life less jarring.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers financial assistance to veterans through the G.I. Bill so that they can get an education and find job after serving in the military. It might be a fulfilling line of work if you get to put your expertise to use helping others.
There are many opportunities for solar contractors, and they earn a respectable wage. Solar installers are experts who put solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on a building’s roof to collect sunlight for later use. A handyman is useful around the house, office, or anywhere else at any time. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for solar installers in the United States was $46,470 in May of 2020. Those at the top end of the income scale had over $64,600, while those at the bottom had less than $32,590. Experts in solar energy are in high demand as more individuals make the transition to sustainable power. There will be an increase of 105% in solar sector jobs between 2016 and 2026, according to studies.
This article will go through the steps necessary for a veteran to start a career as a Solar Contractor. The employment benefits of the GI Bill will also be covered.
WHO IS A SOLAR CONTRACTOR?
A solar contractor is a general contractor whose specialties include working with solar panels in any capacity, whether it installation, modification, repair, maintenance, relocation, or replacement. Photovoltaic contractors are another name for solar energy installers. The system is planned with the customer’s preferences and the property’s layout in mind.
The next stage, after the panels have been set up, is to hook them up to the power grid. They typically work in tandem with electricians to provide a safe and effective connection. Maintenance responsibilities also fall on the shoulders of solar panel technicians. A contractor who is certified or registered by the provisions of this chapter does not need to become a certified or registered solar contractor or to contract with a solar contractor in order to provide any of the services enumerated in this paragraph that fall within the scope of the services that such contractors may render by this part.
WHAT DOES A SOLAR CONTRACTOR DO?
Rooftop or other solar energy conversion system construction, installation, and maintenance fall within the responsibility of solar contractors.
At the job site, they check the dimensions and layout of the structure where the solar system will be installed. A contractor must first build a structure that can hold a photovoltaic (PV) system at an angle on a flat roof before beginning the installation process. PV system installers often use preexisting framework and overlay it with solar shingles or panels.
PV installers are responsible for doing quality assurance testing on the entire system after installation. In order to mount solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and connect them to frames, wiring, and support structures, installers utilize a wide range of electrical equipment.
PV installers may or may not be able to connect solar panels to the electrical grid depending on the scope of the work and the legislation in the state.
In most cases, solar panel installers are responsible for:
- Take care of your solar system by doing regular maintenance on it.
- Join the solar panels to the battery.
- Facilitate and assess photovoltaic (PV) system deployments.
- The framework for holding the solar PV panels has to be measured, cut, and built.
- Solar modules, solar panels, and supporting equipment must be installed in accordance with all applicable national and local building codes.
- Put in place photovoltaic systems as per site requirements and customer needs.
- Seal the equipment being fitted against the elements.
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR BECOMING A SOLAR CONTRACTOR
If you’re thinking about entering the solar installation industry, here are some things to keep in mind.
Beginning your solar panel installation career by working for someone else is a smart move. There is a great deal of hands-on experience required, even if you have a degree in the field. Your chances of succeeding as a sole proprietor in the solar installation industry are low unless you have worked in the field for at least a few years.
The solar sector for homes is one that is constantly evolving. The rate at which technology advances and the nature of federal and municipal incentives are both constantly in flux. Keeping up with industry news is crucial if you want to make it as a solar panel installation. Having relevant experience will increase your employability and allow you to provide superior solar solutions to your clientele.
You may learn a lot about the solar sector and the job market through talking to people you know who already work there.
It’s a good idea to contact home solar companies and individuals to have a better understanding of the industry.
Networking and making connections at trade exhibitions and fairs might lead to new chances and perhaps a new career.
Although formal training or certification is not required, installing solar panels is easier if you have it. You will improve your employment prospects significantly by earning either the SEI or NABCEP credentials.
There is an inequitable distribution of solar sector jobs around the country. Some areas have a far higher need for workers than others because of the greater prevalence of the home solar industry there. This asymmetry can be attributed to a few distinct causes.
When it comes to using solar panels to produce power, the first consideration is the universal truth that certain locations are superior than others. The quantity of energy that may be generated by solar panels on a residential roof during peak daylight hours varies greatly from one state to the next.
WHY ARE VETERANS GREAT PEOPLE TO HIRE AT SOLAR?
Veterans will find favorable employment prospects in the solar energy sector. More veterans (8%) work in the solar industry than in any other sector of the U.S. economy (6%). Veterans has the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed in the solar industry:
Service members’ work ethic is second to none.
- Veterans are given roles of responsibility and taught leadership skills.
- Veterans have a laser-like focus on their goals.
- Veterans have the ability to work well with others.
WHAT TYPES OF JOBS ARE IN THE SOLAR INDUSTRY?
Veterans from all walks of life can find work in the solar business. Some of the most in-demand jobs in the solar industry include:
- After placing the racking structures on rooftops, arranging the panels, and connecting the electrical equipment, solar photovoltaic technicians have completed the installation of the solar array.
- As works progress toward “permission to operate,” inspectors check to make sure everything has been installed correctly and properly.
- Salespeople for solar panels educate potential clients on the advantages of using solar power for their homes and businesses.
- An experienced solar electrician can lead the installation crew in a safe manner and make sure everything is wired properly between the house and the solar panels.
- Designers of solar systems use electrical and structural engineering principles into their work to provide reliable and precise blueprints for solar power installations in homes and businesses.
- The solar career map created by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council provides insight into the wide variety of solar-related fields. Find out more about the many career paths available in the business and the excellent education and preparation required for each one.
BECOMING A SOLAR CONTRACTOR AS A VETERAN
Becoming a solar contractor is one of the finest careers for veterans right now. By juggling many jobs, you may boost both your IQ and your bank account. Becoming a Solar Contractor might be a good choice for veterans looking for a secure income and room for growth in their careers. There are promising job prospects in the solar energy business for veterans in the United States, but that’s far from being the only fast-growing field with significant potential for veterans who are also engaged in public service.
PREPARING TO BECOME A SOLAR CONTRACTOR:
You need to understand the preparation methods before you can successfully complete your courses, training, and licenses. You’ll be better able to understand the field and evaluate your degree of interest after reading this.
Learning the Necessary Skills for a Solar Contractor's Position-
The solar industry consists of professionals who install, manage, and repair solar energy systems and equipment. Construction, renovation, and maintenance are only few of the fields in which they are employed.
Aptitude -
If you wish to work in solar energy, it might assist to have some natural talent for the work. If you were born with solar energy in your blood, learning the fundamentals and carrying out your duties on the job would be a breeze.
Learning the Language of Business-
Talking to established contractors in your area might be helpful if you’re considering a career change into solar installation. They may have useful insights into the industry and the workplace. Talking to people in similar professions in your region will help you make valuable contacts. You might question as to their past work experience, favorite types of work, and most common challenges.
ATTAINING THE MINIMUM REQUIRED LEVEL OF EDUCATION:
There are educational and training requirements that must be met before you can call yourself a VA Solar Contractor. You need a diploma or GED to join the military, so be sure you have one before you enlist. This certification is needed for entry into vocational schools and internship programs.
Going to Vocational School-
Trade schools, often called technical or vocational colleges, educate students in the technical skills and knowledge they’ll need to succeed in a variety of different professions. Furthermore, the curriculum at trade schools is tailored to provide students with the specific expertise they’ll need to excel in their chosen profession.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial help for higher education to eligible veterans and military personnel, as well as a monthly housing stipend and a book and supplies stipend. Assistance amounts are conditional on factors such as length of service.
Signing Up for an Apprenticeship-
The practical instruction and experience gained via an apprenticeship is essential. Apprenticeships allow people to learn a trade while also gaining valuable work experience and earning an income. This way, you may learn the relevant content and abilities.
ACHIEVING MASTERY:
Gaining experience and a master Contractor’s license are prerequisites to making good money as a Virginia Solar Contractor. The time to study for and take the test is now if you have the necessary background and knowledge. Pre-exam registration is required. So, it’s imperative that you stick to the deadlines.
Obtaining a Driver's License-
The vast majority of states need Contractors to hold a valid license before they may begin working. Getting a state license usually involves passing a test of your knowledge. In addition, you’ll need to meet whatever education, experience, or apprenticeship requirements your state has set up for obtaining such a license.
A criminal history check is part of the licensing procedure in certain states but not others. In order to receive a license or certification in some states, applicants must first pass a background check.
If you are a veteran, you can use your GI Bill benefits to help pay for your Contractor’s license from the state.
Obtaining a Position as a Solar Energy Contractor-
You can now operate alone or join a firm thanks to your newly acquired state license. Actively interacting with others and presenting oneself in a professional manner are necessary traits for anybody seeking employment as a state-licensed Contractor. If you want to increase your chances of landing a job, you should try a few different approaches.
You can start your own company or work independently. Working as a subcontractor also helps you meet more people in your field.
If you want to get a job, you need to network. Get in touch with Contractors in your area and let them know you’re looking for work. Inquire if they have any connections or can provide you a recommendation in their place of employment. Connect with other professionals in your field by joining a trade association or professional organization.
CONCLUDING REMARKS
Depending on experience, installing solar panels may be a highly lucrative and satisfying career path. It is anticipated that the business would enjoy rapid expansion over the next few years, opening up numerous lucrative career paths. You should get the training you need as soon as possible so that you can capitalize on the anticipated increase in demand. Learning new abilities is necessary while starting a solar business. This knowledge might range widely, from roof safety procedures to legal documentation needs. Despite how daunting it may seem, your long-term success in the solar industry depends on your ability to recognize and avoid typical pitfalls.