Solar Photovoltaic Technician Certificate
Earn a Solar Photovoltaic Technician Certificate – Scholarships Available!
Minnesota West is excited to announce the return of its Solar Camp this year, open to all Electrician program students enrolled at any Minnesota State college.
The program begins with an online course in March, followed by an in-person lab component concluding on June 10, 2025. Students attending the lab will have the option to stay at Carr Residence Hall in Canby for the three-week duration.
Solar and Electrician Instructor Judy Drown encourages Electrician students to join the program, highlighting the growing demand for skilled solar installers. “There are plenty of solar installer jobs available across Minnesota,” she shared.
Former participants have praised the program:
Devon Beimert, an Electrician student, described Solar Camp as "a truly amazing experience. The instructors, Judy Drown and Tim Zinniel, were incredibly helpful and taught us so much about solar. It’s an extraordinary opportunity for anyone interested.”
Dallas Durbin, a Canby Campus alumnus, said, “It was a great hands-on learning experience with solar array systems used in the field. I gained valuable knowledge about solar energy and the industry as a whole.”
Students from other Minnesota State colleges have also benefited from earning the Solar Photovoltaic Technician Certificate. Christine, a Ridgewater College graduate with an Electrician A.A.S., completed her certification at Minnesota West in 2022.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable skills and stand out in the growing renewable energy field!
$500 Scholarships available:
Apply by March 1
Course list:
March 17 - SOLR 1020 (March 17 – May 7)
Introduction to Solar Assessment online course starts
March 21 - 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. SOLR 1020
Introduction to Solar Assessment at Canby Campus
May 19 - SOLR 2020 (May 19 – June 6)
Advanced Photovoltaic Systems online course starts
May 19 – June 10 - SOLR 1030 (May 19 – May 29)
Solar Energy Construction Projects and SOLR 2025 (May 30 – June 10)
Photovoltaic Systems Lab will meet for labs at Minnesota West Canby Campus (no class on Monday, May 26, Memorial Day)
Reserve your residence spot today > Carr Residence Hall Application
