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

Dec 24, 2025, 2:42 AM

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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.

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