Free Solar Tech Training at Holyoke Community College Starts Jan. 7

Dec 24, 2025, 2:42 AM

Hover over text to view sources

Holyoke Community College (HCC) is set to launch a free, 16-week training program for individuals interested in pursuing careers as solar technicians. The program will begin on January 7, 2026, and will run until May 1, 2026, with classes held Monday through Thursday and select Fridays from 5:30 to 8:00 pm at both the HCC campus and Dean Technical High School in Holyoke.

Participants in this hands-on program will earn OSHA 30 safety credentials while acquiring essential electrical and construction skills. These skills will be directly applicable to solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, covering aspects such as design, installation, operation, and maintenance. The curriculum also includes components focused on job readiness and career development, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce.

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive guidance on applying for apprenticeships as solar installers and electricians, as well as for entry-level positions in the building trades or clean energy sectors. The average starting wage for these positions is reported to be around $22 per hour.

Program Details

The training program consists of 150 hours of instruction, divided into various modules that include trade skills and career development workshops. The first week will feature orientation and mandatory resume workshops, which are crucial for students to progress in the course. Subsequent weeks will focus on trade skills at Dean Tech, with Fridays dedicated to career and life skills training at HCC.

Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, authorized to work in the US, and possess a high school diploma, GED, or HiSET. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to pursuing work in the clean energy or building trades fields. The program is limited to 20 participants, and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Funding and Partnerships

This initiative is funded through a grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education. HCC is collaborating with several organizations, including the Coalition for an Equitable Economy, Springfield Works, Holyoke Public Schools, and the MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board, to facilitate this training program.

For more information or to apply, interested individuals can visit the HCC website or contact the program's career development counselor, Besar Bacaj, at bbacaj@hcc.edu.

This training program represents a significant opportunity for individuals looking to enter the growing clean energy sector, aligning with Massachusetts' broader goals of transitioning to sustainable energy solutions and fostering healthier communities.

As the demand for skilled workers in the clean energy field continues to rise, programs like this one at Holyoke Community College are essential in equipping the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this evolving industry.

With the program set to begin in just a few weeks, prospective students are encouraged to apply soon to secure their spot in this valuable training opportunity.

Google Partners with TotalEnergies for Major Solar Energy Initiative

Google has entered into two long-term power purchase agreements with TotalEnergies to secure 1 gigawatt of solar energy for its Texas data centers. This deal marks a significant step in Google's efforts to integrate renewable energy and enhance grid stability amid rising electricity demands.

Google Secures 1.2 GW of Carbon-Free Energy from Clearway

Google has signed long-term power purchase agreements with Clearway Energy Group to secure nearly 1.2 gigawatts of carbon-free energy for its data centers in the US The projects, located in Missouri, Texas, and West Virginia, represent a significant investment in clean energy infrastructure and aim to support Google's ambitious sustainability goals.

Climate Change Overlooked in Michigan Data Center Debate

The rapid expansion of data centers in Michigan raises significant concerns about their environmental impact, particularly regarding climate change. Critics argue that the focus on economic benefits overshadows the urgent need for sustainable energy practices, risking the state's climate goals and water resources.

Google Invests in CO2 Batteries for Renewable Energy Storage

Google is developing CO2 batteries in partnership with Energy Dome to enhance renewable energy storage for its data centers. These batteries promise greater capacity and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, aiming to provide reliable power even during low renewable energy production.

Google Acquires Renewable Energy Developer Intersect for $4.75 Billion

Google's parent company, Alphabet, has announced the acquisition of renewable energy developer Intersect for $4.75 billion. This deal aims to enhance Google's energy generation capacity to support its expanding data center operations, particularly in the context of rising demand from AI technologies.