Military veterans are exceptional candidates for a wide range of solar energy careers, with aptitudes and skills such as dynamic leadership, teamwork, critical thinking, technical specialization, and a mission-completion work ethic. The solar industry offers a collaborative and purpose-driven environment that resonates with service members and veterans looking to rise to their next challenge.
The Solar Ready Vets Network connects solar employers with partners and resources to support these companies in recruiting, hiring and retaining military talent at all levels and sectors of the solar workforce.
Solar Ready Vets Fellowship
Recruit the best and brightest military talent as they transition to the civilian workforce. The fellowship program is offered at no cost to employers through our partner Hiring Our Heroes and entails 12 weeks of on-the-job experience in professional/management roles, intended to lead to employment.
Partners and Programs
SkillBridge
The U.S. Department of Defense SkillBridge program allows service members to pursue career training within 180 days prior to separation, while continuing to receive military compensation and benefits. The Solar Ready Vets Network is expanding SkillBridge opportunities to connect transitioning service members with solar industry employers.
In addition to the Solar Ready Vets Fellowship, employers are invited to connect with two SkillBridge training partners, who provide service members with valuable hands-on training in electrical, construction, and safety skills.
Airstreams Renewables provides 6-week hands-on technical training to military veterans and transitioning service members on fundamental safety requirements and technical skills relevant to renewable energy, notably: OSHA 10, electrical safety and troubleshooting, schematic and blueprint reading, mechanical knowledge and experience with hand tools, and climbing and safety training. Trainees are also provided with career and job placement services (at no cost to the hiring employer).
Home Builders Institute (HBI) Military Program offers pre-apprenticeship training programs in construction located at 10 of the largest military installations in the nation. Transitioning service members participate in a 12-week training program in the construction trades. During the program, service members spend 75% of their time in hands-on training, earn professional certifications, and receive job placement support (at no cost to the trainee or hiring employer).
Regional Veterans Employment Coordinators
The U.S. Department of Labor connects employers with hiring resources for veterans. Regional Veterans’ Employment Coordinators engage with local, regional, and national employers and connect them with federal, state and local resources to facilitate veterans’ employment. RVECs also develop and leverage partnerships with government, NGO, and industry stakeholders in the veteran employment space to include training providers and industry associations.
Employer Resources
Registered Apprenticeship Toolkit for Clean Energy Employers
Registered Apprenticeships are a great way to develop, scale, and sustain a pipeline of highly qualified talent. Apprenticeships are an effective recruitment tool for veterans (who can receive GI Bill benefits to participate), transitional job seekers, young workers, and other diverse candidates.
Through Solar Ready Vets Network and other programs, IREC is supporting employers with resources to navigate the registered apprenticeship space. We are convening a working group to develop National Guideline Standards for existing approved occupations aligned with solar roles.
Learn more by reading IREC’s Registered Apprenticeship Toolkit for Clean Energy Employers. Or learn about opportunities for no-cost technical assistance to develop Registered Apprenticeship programs through the Apprenticeships in Clean Energy (ACE) Network.
A Brief Guide to Attracting, Hiring and Retaining Military Talent
The Solar Energy Industries Association, a Solar Ready Vets partner, developed a brief guide for employers to recruit, hire and retain military talent. Read the guide here.
Veteran Employer Road Map
SRV Partner Hiring Our Heroes has several high-quality, actionable resources for employers to develop strategies to prepare, recruit, and empower veterans and military spouses. A few highlights include: case studies, a veteran-friendly job description builder, and several downloadable workbooks and action plans for employers. These resources are available through the Veteran Employer Road Map.
Veterans at Work Certificate Program
This program is designed for HR professionals, hiring managers and supervisors, and offers the actionable knowledge and tools needed to attract, hire and retain veterans and members of the military community in the workplace. Offered at no cost and open to all. More info here.
The DOL Hire Vets Medallion Award
The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is the only federal-level veterans’ employment award that recognizes a company or organization’s commitment to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. Learn more and apply at HireVets.Gov.
Join the Solar Ready Vets Network
To get involved, or just stay up to date on opportunities, please join the Solar Ready Vets Network and indicate your interest in our various initiatives. Or email E’lon Hall at the Solar Energy Industries Association ([email protected]) to get started now.
Join the Network