To succeed in Florida’s booming solar trade industry, Crestview residents should consider the 20+ job openings listed on platforms like Indeed and understand that the U.S. solar workforce grew 9% in 2023 to 263,000 workers and is expected to expand 40% by 2025 [source 5]. From installation and sales to project management, there are growing paths for aspiring solar professionals in Crestview, FL.
Solar professionals install, maintain, and sell solar photovoltaic systems that convert sunlight into usable electricity. There are several solar trade roles in Crestview including:
Each role plays a vital part in bringing solar energy to homes across Crestview.
In Florida, most entry-level solar positions don't require a license, but certification and training can significantly improve job prospects and earning potential. The Florida government supports the Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program, the first nationally registered solar apprenticeship program with the U.S. Department of Labor [source 6].
Apprenticeship programs give entry-level workers a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience while providing a competitive hourly wage. The Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program prepares workers toward becoming State Certified Solar Contractors, with the training to work with photovoltaic and thermal solar systems [source 6].
Technical training is also available at local institutions. For instance, Northwest Florida State College and Okaloosa Technical College provide training programs in solar energy fundamentals, system design, and installation practices [source 7][source 8][source 9].
| Training Option | Description | Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program | Nationally registered apprenticeship with the U.S. Department of Labor | A few months |
| Technical Colleges (e.g., NWFSC, OTech) | Certificate and career programs with both theory and hands-on learning | 1-2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degrees in Renewable Energy | Advanced degree options, not mandatory for entry-level work | 3-4 years |
To become a solar professional in Crestview, FL, candidates typically need to:
There’s a growing market for those without experience in solar trades, meaning training and willingness to learn are just as important as prior experience [source 6].
The Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program is an ideal choice to begin your solar career, offering a structured on-the-job training experience. For those interested in local technical college programs, options include:
Use Gild to find apprenticeships and job opportunities in Crestview. Gild connects thousands of openings in the solar industry, including hands-on installation roles.
Upon completing training or apprenticeship, job seekers can apply for positions like solar installer, sales agent, or service technician. Additionally, apprentices can earn credentials that help them advance into roles like project management with time and experience.
Those who remain in the field long enough can progress to roles requiring expertise and leadership skills, such as Solar Project Manager, Crew Leader, or Technical Installer [source 10].
Start by exploring current job listings on Indeed or through Gild for a centralized view of the solar workforce opportunities in Crestview. With solar job counts expected to increase and multiple job opportunities available now, the time to take training, apply for an apprenticeship, and begin your career is growing quickly.
To become certified and prepare for this growing market, explore local training programs at Northwest Florida State College or other regional technical colleges, which will give you the foundational knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the solar industry.
By 2025, Crestview professionals can anticipate diverse opportunities, driven by government incentives like the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar installation and increased local residential solar adoption due to rising utility costs [source 7][source 10]. With the U.S. solar industry projected to grow by 40% by 2025 and solar installer jobs projected to increase 27% through 2032, the time to act is now.
