This is an Associate of Applied Science degree program*, with certificate career options, in the renewable energy field. This program is designed to train individuals who wish to enter the job market with the skills to perform a variety of job functions in the renewable energy field.

Renewable Energy Systems Specialists are responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting photovoltaic systems and wind turbines. People in this position need a strong electro-mechanical background and therefore will receive such training. Renewable Energy System Specialists need to be able to analyze a site, install equipment and have working knowledge of electrical systems, pumps and motors related to renewable energies.

A career in renewable energy systems generally requires a minimum of two years college education. Some renewable energy systems programs are longer in length and may culminate in a baccalaureate degree. However, for a technician-level position, a two-year degree is most common.

Career Opportunities

The renewable energy field includes the electrical production industry, the biofuels industry and the renewable energy equipment manufacturing sectors. Renewable Energy Systems Technicians who work in the renewable energy field complete such tasks as electrical wiring, mechanical installation, site analysis and troubleshooting.

Related occupational titles may include:

• Renewable Energy Technician 
• Solar Systems Installer 
• Windsmith
• Wind Turbine Manufacturing Specialist
  

Hands-On Learning

This program is being designed with the intent of incorporating real world learning opportunities within the renewable energy field. Students will have a wide variety of experiential learning opportunities through the experiential components of the curriculum. The program will be competency-based and will follow NABCEP Small Wind standards as they are established.

Program Fact Sheet (.pdf Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader a free download.)

*This program was approved by the EICCD Board of Trustees in December, 2008, and is scheduled to begin in the Fall of 2009. It is currently awaiting state approval.