Florida’s solar apprenticeship program builds skilled workforce for a growing industry

As solar energy continues to surge as one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries, Florida has positioned itself at the forefront of developing a skilled workforce ready to meet the demand.

A first-of-its-kind solar apprenticeship program, launched through a partnership between the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) and the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association (FlaSEIA), is helping to train and certify the next generation of solar professionals while keeping jobs and economic benefits in the Sunshine State.

For years, industry leaders sought to create a formal training pathway for solar workers. Historically, the U.S. Department of Labor did not classify solar as an “apprenticeable trade,” arguing that solar job tasks overlapped with existing construction-related apprenticeships. Yet, the solar sector’s rapid growth and evolving technologies made the need for specialized training clear.

Recognizing that gap, FSEC educators and a coalition of FlaSEIA member solar contractors designed a comprehensive program tailored specifically to Florida’s workforce. Approved by the Florida Department of Education and registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, the apprenticeship provides a structured route toward professional licensure as a solar contractor in the state.

The two-year program combines 2,000 hours per year of on-the-job training with 144 hours of technical instruction annually. Apprentices gain hands-on experience installing, operating and maintaining solar systems while completing coursework that covers both photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal technologies.

The curriculum aligns closely with the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) standards, preparing participants for key certifications such as the NABCEP PV and Solar Heating Associate credentials. Upon completion, apprentices are equipped to sit for the Florida Solar Contractor exam, positioning them for long-term careers in the energy sector.

While the program’s core mission has remained steady, organizers have adapted its structure to meet changing demands. The shift to online instruction has increased accessibility and flexibility, especially for companies specializing in either solar thermal or PV systems.

Currently, 12 solar companies across Florida are registered as participating employers. Since both the employers and apprentices must be Florida-based, the initiative ensures that training dollars and resulting jobs stay within the state’s economy.

Industry leaders say the demand for trained solar professionals has remained strong — and continues to grow. “There has always been a need for skilled solar workers,” said Colleen McCann Kettles, Director of Workforce & Business Development Division for the Florida Solar Energy Center. “This apprenticeship is helping fill that need and ensure Florida companies can deliver high-quality installations.”

However, scaling the program comes with challenges. Developing curriculum that keeps pace with fast-changing technology and balancing on-the-job demands with coursework have been key hurdles. Funding support from the Florida Department of Education has helped sustain curriculum development and participant services.

Apprentices who complete the program find themselves well-positioned for advancement in a competitive job market. Wages in the solar field are comparable to, if not higher than, many traditional construction sectors, with additional opportunities for growth as solar adoption expands statewide.

Despite political headwinds, solar energy remains a cost-competitive and increasingly popular option for Florida homeowners and businesses. Projections show solar-related occupations among the fastest-growing in the U.S., and program organizers are optimistic about continued expansion.

“We hope to see more employers join the program, invest in their employees’ growth, and deliver quality solar installations across Florida,” Kettles said.

As Florida continues to lead in both sunshine and innovation, its solar apprenticeship program stands as a model for how workforce development can power Florida’s economy.