Program Overview
PVCC's Solar Technician program prepares students for entry-level roles in solar system design, installation, and maintenance. This G3 program offers free tuition, fees, and books to eligible students. The program covers topics such as solar energy fundamentals, system design, and troubleshooting, and prepares graduates for careers in the growing solar industry.
Program Outline
Solar Technician Program at Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC):
Degree Overview:
The Solar Technician program at PVCC prepares students for entry-level employment in the design, installation, and maintenance of residential photovoltaic (PV) systems.
This G3 program offers free tuition, fees, and books to eligible students.
The program aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to:
- Design, install, and maintain solar systems.
- Understand the fundamentals of solar energy.
- Utilize tools and equipment commonly used in the solar industry.
- Troubleshoot and repair solar systems.
- Follow safety protocols and regulations.
Outline:
The program consists of 40 contact hours and covers the following modules:
- Markets and Applications: This module introduces students to the growing solar energy market and the various applications of solar PV systems.
- Electricity Basics: This module provides students with a foundational understanding of electricity, including concepts such as voltage, current, and resistance.
- Solar Energy Fundamentals: This module explores the science behind solar energy, including the photovoltaic effect and how solar cells convert sunlight into electricity.
- Module Fundamentals: This module covers the different types of solar modules, their characteristics, and how they are connected to form a solar array.
- System Components: This module examines the various components of a solar PV system, including inverters, charge controllers, batteries, and wiring.
- System Sizing Principles: This module teaches students how to size a solar PV system to meet the energy needs of a specific application.
- System Electrical and Mechanical Design: This module covers the electrical and mechanical design principles of solar PV systems.
- Performance Analysis: This module teaches students how to analyze the performance of a solar PV system and identify areas for improvement.
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting: This module provides students with the skills and knowledge to maintain and troubleshoot solar PV systems.
Assessment:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Written exams: These exams assess students' understanding of the theoretical concepts covered in the program.
- Hands-on projects: These projects allow students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world situations.
- Performance-based assessments: These assessments measure students' ability to perform specific tasks related to solar PV system design, installation, and maintenance.
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced instructors with expertise in the solar industry. The instructors use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, hands-on activities, and field trips. The program also emphasizes safety and encourages students to ask questions and participate actively in class.
Careers:
Graduates of the Solar Technician program are prepared for entry-level positions in the solar industry, such as:
- Solar installer
- Solar technician
- Service technician
- Project manager The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of solar installers and technicians will grow by 54% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Other:
- The program is offered through PVCC's Workforce Services division.
- Students may be eligible for financial assistance to help cover the cost of tuition and fees.
- Program Dean: Christy Hawkins
- Faculty Contact: Donald Davis or Thomas Eanes
- Workforce Services: 434-961-5276