YouthBuild Solar Panel Installation Pilot Program Kicks Off

In a competitive application process, GAP School’s YouthBuild program was selected for a grant by YouthBuild Global to run a Solar Panel Installation Training and Certification Pilot Program, in partnership with Menlo Academy in Minneapolis.

The Solar Panel Installation Training Pilot started at Menlo Academy on January 27th with 15 students and will run for 10 weeks. The group's first task was to build a mock roof, which included learning how to frame trusses, sheathe, and shingle a roof.

With the roof complete, the students will be continuing to learn about how solar energy works, different racking and mounting systems for commercial and residential solar panel installation, how to use different tools, how to identify and work with different roofing materials, and even some basic electrical engineering.

During the final week of the program, a team from Step Up Solar will travel to Minneapolis and work with the students for an entire week, testing them so they can earn their certification. This all leads to “graduation” of the program with a $250 stipend and professional certification in Solar Panel Installation, equipping participants with the skills needed to enter the solar workforce.

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This pilot program, led by YouthBuild St. Paul Westside and Menlo High School, will certify participants in Unirac's solar installation training program, equipping them with the skills needed to enter the solar workforce.

YouthBuild supports 16- to 24-year-olds to develop career and leadership skills while completing their high school diploma. Change Inc. has been home to YouthBuild St. Paul West Side for over 30 years. We are excited to share this opportunity with Menlo High School.

For more information about the YouthBuild movement, visit: www.youthbuild.org