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Hands on Installation Training

Onsite Installation Training  

TEA values the impact of hands-on installation solar training experience for tribal communities. In collaboration with TEA’s construction team, the Workforce and Education department ensures workforce and training opportunities are a part of each installation. By engaging energy project managers, TERO, Housing Authorities, and additional tribal partners, TEA works to create sustainable and inclusive recruitment strategies for each tribal project. Having tribal members, a part of each project is not only an opportunity to align tribal members with tangible career development opportunities, but it also aligns tribes with creating an internal tribal workforce who understand the maintenance and operations of these solar pv systems.  

Training Curriculum 

In partnership with our parent organization GRID Alternatives, TEA’s Technical Training Team utilizes the Installation Basics Training (IBT) curriculum. IBT is a competency-based certificate program that develops the skills needed for entry-level solar installation jobs and related construction pathways. IBT focuses on skills-based assessments, providing trainees with valuable hands-on training and access to potential employment opportunities. 

Benefits of the IBT Program 

  • Valuable hands-on training         
  • Access to potential employment opportunities 
  • Earning skill certificates by demonstrating competency in real-world installations   
  • Develop competencies to be prepared for entry-level solar installation jobs 
  • Meaningful, hands-on work experience in a supportive and inclusive environment 
  • A safe training environment  
  • Participatory learning 

For more information on how to bring training to your community, please reach out to us at tribalprograms@tribalalternatives.org 

CAHA Trainees

 

Earning Installation Basics Training Certificates 

IBT prepares trainees for work based on the job task analysis for NABCEP's PV Installer Specialist. The curriculum includes training in array installation, commissioning and O&M, construction basics, electricity basics, employment readiness, and safety. After graduating, trainees will receive certificates for IBT, OSHA-10, and CPR/First Aid. 

TEA Trainings

TEA provides training in alignment with solar installation projects and IBT cohorts nationally. Below you can find information on upcoming TEA training opportunities that will be taking place on site. If none are listed, please submit an interest form and a TEA Education and Workforce team member will reach out to you to explore additional training opportunities. 

Please note that each training opportunity listed may require a different application and screening process due to the requests of the tribe, partner organization, or grant requirements.  

TEA works in collaboration with the GRID regional offices to deliver onsite installation and IBT programming. Below are upcoming opportunities, if you do not see training opportunities near your community, please fill out the California Tribal Program Interest Form, and a TEA Education and Workforce team member will follow up you about additional training opportunities. 

Please note that each training opportunity listed may require a different application and screening process due to the requests of the tribe, partner organization, or grant requirements. 

Owen’s Valley Development Center             

Funded through the California Job’s First Fund and serving 13 counties, TEA and GRID are partnering with the Owen’s Valley Development Center to offer multiple IBT and Tribal Energy Associates cohorts through 2027. Owen’s Valley Development Center is the lead contact for recruitment for this training opportunity, please contact them at info@ovcdc.com 

Berry Creek Rancheria 

Funded through the California Job’s First Fund, TEA is partnering with GRID and the Berry Creek Rancheria tribe to offer IBT training and an Energy Associates cohort in late 2026 and early 2027. This training is prioritizing Berry Creek Rancheria tribal members at this time. Recruitment information will be updated fall 2026.

TEA currently works with the Northwest Native Chambers to provide yearly IBT cohorts and additional workforce opportunities through their Native Clean Energy Workforce Initiative. Portland-area residents receive hands-on solar training, earn college credentials, and get paid stipends while learning valuable skills for the renewable energy sector. Cohorts take place multiple times throughout the year.

In 2026 we will have a 2 three-week Installation Basics Training cohorts starting in June and July prior to the start of the Clackamas Community College school year. Click Here for more information and submit an interest form.