Entering the solar trade in Freeport, IL, often begins with specialized training and apprenticeships, which blend practical experience with theoretical knowledge, enabling individuals to learn while they earn. Apprenticeships typically span two to four years, requiring extensive on-the-job training under experienced professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the solar industry employed 279,447 workers nationwide as of December 2023, with a significant presence in Illinois. Solar apprentices in Freeport earn an average of $600 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $110,000 annually. Training programs, community colleges, and organizations like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) provide pathways for aspiring solar professionals to enter this rapidly growing field, which projects a 104% job growth by 2032.
