Entering the solar trade in Owatonna, MN, often begins with a Registered Apprenticeship Program, which combines on-the-job training with technical instruction, allowing individuals to gain practical experience while earning. These apprenticeships typically last two to three years, requiring a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning and 144 hours of classroom instruction per year. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the solar industry employed 279,447 workers nationwide as of 2023, with projections indicating a 104% growth by 2032. In Owatonna, the average solar technician earns approximately $1,399.50 per week, with experienced professionals earning over $60,000 annually. Training programs, community colleges, and organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offer pathways to enter this growing field, which promises stable employment and strong earning potential.
