careers /
Rooftop Solar Installation Timelapse Video
Source: Center for Renewable Energy Advanced Technological Education (CREATE)
See how solar panels are installed on the roof of a large school building in this 3.5-minute timelapse video.
Renewable Energy Jobs Card Game
Source: Mystic Aquarium & National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
In this game, played similarly to “Go Fish,”students explore different types of renewable energy – including solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass – and survey roles of real people who work in those industries. Renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing job sectors, and that trend is only expected to increase in the coming years with the U.S. goal of achieving a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
Fastest Growing Occupations: Occupational Outlook Handbook
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Renewable energy jobs – such as Wind Turbine Service Technician and Solar Photovoltaic Installer – are some of the fastest-growing occupations in the country. Using this Occupational Handbook, students can explore the pay scales, responsibilities, and training requirements of a wide variety of renewable energy careers.
Women in Energy Careers Picture Book
Source: Authors Erin Twamley and Joshua Sneideman
This illustrated book spotlights diverse women working in STEM.
Exploring Solar Energy Careers
Source: Sun Tribe Solar
Part I surveys the career paths of three real-life solar professionals and the skills and certifications needed to get a job in solar. Part II is a guided, interactive exploration of solar careers. Students can complete all activities independently. (Did someone say "sub plan"?)
Careers in Renewable Energy Video
Source: Advanced Technology Environmental Education Center (ATEEC)
This 4-minute video introduces the wide span of jobs in the renewable energy industry, including some less commonly featured technologies like wave energy.
Solar Career Map
Source: Interstate Renewable Energy Council
This interactive career map is a perfect way to introduce the breadth of job opportunities in the solar field. Students can explore job details of specific positions and a path to their ultimate career goals. Don’t miss the short videos from actual solar professionals on the "About the Industry" tab.
Energy Career Activities and Lessons
Source: National Energy Education Development (NEED)
The Energy Careers Excursion curriculum pack includes activities suitable for all ages. With activities like "Energy Industry Guess Who?" and "Soft Skills Soirée", students assess which types of energy jobs match their interests and skills.
NABCEP Solar Installer Certification
Source: North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP)
A NABCEP certification makes a solar installer's resume shine, as it serves as a powerful signal of solar PV knowledge and training.
OSHA-10 Safety Certification
Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration
An OSHA safety certification makes candidates for solar field positions stand out.
Hear from Women in Solar - Video
Source: Solar Energy International
Women from across the world talk about their roles in the solar industry in this 4-minute video.
Clean Energy Jobs and Planning
Source: U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Resources for clean energy careers, such as career maps for many types of renewable energy (solar, wind, bioenergy, fuel cells, and more) are available on this website.
