cte /
Tinkercad: Create a Solar-Powered Invention
Source: Tinkercad
This project challenges students to use the engineering process to imagine, plan, and design a solar-powered invention. Students draw 2D sketches and 3D models of their designs using Tinkercad software. A scaffolded lesson plan is provided, complete with planning worksheets and an evaluation rubric. Skills: engineering, design, CAD software, geometry, geometric measurements.
Intro to Solar - Online Course
Source: Solar Energy International (SEI)
Solar Energy International is the industry go-to for solar workforce training, with both all-online and hands-on courses. PVOL101 is an on-demand, self-paced online course that is ideal for CTE teachers looking to gain a solid understanding of photovoltaics before teaching a course about solar. Contact Sun Tribe to see if scholarships are available for teacher tuition.
Solar Technical Training Curriculum
Source: Center for Renewable Energy Advanced Technological Education (CREATE)
This curriculum unit is perfect for CTE; students will learn about solar resource evaluation, siting, and design using the technical tools commonly used in the field. In addition to a thorough Solar PV unit, the Center for Renewable Energy Advanced Technological Education also offers free unit plans for other energy-based units, such as Energy Efficiency and Energy Bill Analysis.
Solar Switch Challenge
Source: Solar Empowered Schools
Through this hands-on activity, students apply principles of electricity and solar technology to design, build, and test on/off and dimmer switches. The introduction is intentionally low-instruction to encourage a student-led engineering design process, and multiple challenge levels ensure that all students can be successful. Equipment required; materials list included.
National Energy Education Development (NEED) Solar Curriculum
Source: National Energy Education Development (NEED)
NEED specializes in K-12 renewable energy curriculum and teacher professional development. Their site includes a huge library of standards-aligned lesson plans (free) and hands-on experiment kits (for purchase).
Intro to Renewable Energy - Free Online Course
Source: Solar Energy International (SEI)
This free self-paced online course covers the basics of electricity, conservation and efficiency, and renewable energy technologies. This course is perfect for teachers seeking professional development or motivated high school students.
Solar Suitcase Project: Local Learning, Global Impact
Source: We Share Solar
This hands-on STEM education program links practical engineering skills with global humanitarian service as students build and share We Share Solar Suitcases with schools in energy-scarce regions of the world.
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.
