A new solar jobs toolkit released today provides a comprehensive guide for the solar industry to meet the high demand for qualified employees and build a skilled and diverse solar workforce. This unique resource includes a detailed guide for setting up work-based learning programs to invest in current and future workers.

The guide, “Strategies for Workforce Development: A Toolkit for the Solar Industry,” was released at Intersolar North America by the Solar Training Network, a program led by The Solar Foundation and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office.

The toolkit draws upon two years of Solar Training Network engagements with employers, trainers, industry associations, and community organizations in a wide range of solar markets. It provides practical steps for the industry to better align training with evolving workforce needs to ensure a steady supply of talent.

“Solar companies are struggling to find qualified workers in the wake of the industry’s rapid expansion over the past decade,” said Andrea Luecke, president and executive director of The Solar Foundation. “Our research also shows that training opportunities are not well coordinated with industry needs in many regional markets. This new toolkit is a step-by-step guide for engaging workforce development resources, positioning the industry for stronger future growth.” [click here for full article]