Entering the solar trade in Arlington, DC, often begins with a Registered Apprenticeship Program, which combines hands-on experience with technical instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. These apprenticeships typically last about four years and require a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of technical instruction annually. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that the solar industry employed 279,447 workers nationwide as of December 2023, with a 5.9% increase from 2022. In Arlington, DC, the average weekly wage for solar professionals is approximately $860, with experienced workers often earning over $100,000 annually. Training programs and certifications from organizations like NABCEP are crucial for career advancement, offering pathways to stable and well-paying jobs in a rapidly growing sector.
