“This bootcamp was really helpful in looking for jobs in the solar field. If you want good teachers and mentors, come to this boot camp.”  That’s how participant Miguel Alocer summed up his weeklong experience at this summer’s free solar bootcamp, held at North Carolina State University.

This was the first PV Solar Technician bootcamp in a 5-year program developed by NC State’s College of Natural Resources and the NC Clean Energy Technology Center. Future bootcamps will be held in the summers of 2026-2028, with sessions planned at Sampson Community College and UNC Pembroke. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. 

Nine bootcamp participants from southeastern North Carolina spent five days at the Center, learning both the theory of solar technology and putting that knowledge to work installing a full rooftop photovoltaic solar system at the Center’s Solar Training Yard.

“It was an incredible opportunity to dive deeper into the theory behind renewable energy and truly understand how solar technology works, from design and installation to safety and system performance,” said student Ivan Avila.

Bootcamp participants also worked with mentors who led professional development activities on workplace communication, networking, and using LinkedIn for professional growth.

Participants got to practice their networking skills in real-time with a panel of industry representatives who shared insights about what it’s really like to work in the solar industry – and then discussed job opportunities with learners over lunch.

“I have a straight shot to a job now,” said one participant after the networking lunch.

Bootcamp attendees will receive ongoing mentorship and career preparation – including help securing internships, apprenticeships, industry certifications or enrollment in degree programs. 

You can read more about the bootcamp program here. If you’re interested in participating in the bootcamp as a student or a mentor, please reach out to NCCETC Training Program Manager, Allison Carr, at cleanenergy@ncsu.edu. 

Click here to see a video testimonial from bootcamp participant Jime Ribeiro.

“I would definitely encourage anyone who is interested in the
solar industry or renewable energy to consider the bootcamp.”
– Solar bootcamp participant Jime Ribeiro