The Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) offers free solar training to groups that serve under-represented communities in the Midwest through the Rise Up Scholarship Training Program. Established to expand access to workforce development opportunities in the renewable energy field, Rise Up Scholarships provide recipients with free, industry-leading solar technical training and paid internship opportunities.
Scholarship Training Overview
The Introductory Solar Training Package is an in-person training that enhances the MREA’s core courses by expanding their duration and integrating hands-on demonstrations. This approach provides students an in-depth presentation of the concepts, going beyond a general overview to offer a more immersive introduction. The introductory curriculum is a comprehensive introduction to solar PV and can also be used to prepare students for enrollment in the remaining courses necessary to obtain the NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) Associates credential.
Intro to Solar Energy and Professional Work
NABCEP PV Associate Package
The Introductory Solar Training Package is an in-person training that enhances the MREA’s core courses by expanding their duration and integrating hands-on demonstrations. This approach provides students an in-depth presentation of the concepts, going beyond a general overview to offer a more immersive introduction.
Once recipients complete the Introductory Solar Training, they can begin taking the second phase of courses that allow them to prepare to launch their solar careers. After completing PV 201 and 202, students will qualify to sit for the NABCEP PV Associate Exam, and increasingly sought-after solar credential valued by the industry.
Support the Future of Solar
Solar energy jobs increased 3.5% nationwide from 2021 to 2022, creating meaningful work for hundreds of thousands of people. With the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act, Bipartisan Infastructure Law, and CHIPS and Science Act, the industry continues to grow as does the need to ensure its benefits and opportunities are accessible to all.
Today, we’re asking you to rise up and help meet these critical needs.
At the MREA, we’re working with a growing list of partner organizations to provide full-ride scholarships to aspiring solar professionals in underrepresented communities across the Midwest — but we need your help to make it happen.
With your support, we can take MREA’s industry-leading solar training on the road to provide free access to the education and mentorship students need to join the growing solar workforce.
“This scholarship is important because it really opens the door for students of color like me to learn to implement and advance MREA’s mission of using clean energy solutions in our families, communities, and neighborhoods.”
– Joshua Otusafo, 2020 Scholarship Recipient
Interested in applying for the Rise Up Scholarship?
The MREA partners with Midwest groups that offer solar training to underserved communities. If your organization or group would like to apply for Rise Up Scholarship funds, please email the MREA Training Team at courses@midwestrenew.org