Entering the solar trade in Bloomington, IN typically begins with a Registered Apprenticeship Program, which combines on-the-job training with technical instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. These apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of technical instruction per year. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that the solar industry employed 279,447 workers in 2023, with projections indicating a 104% growth by 2032. In Bloomington, the average weekly wage for solar professionals is approximately $3,082, with experienced workers earning over $159,000 annually. Training programs, community colleges, and organizations like NABCEP help aspiring solar professionals find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and a significant role in the clean energy transition.
