Entering the solar trade in Rockford, IL, often begins with a Registered Apprenticeship Program, which combines on-the-job training with technical instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. These programs typically last about four to five years, requiring a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of technical instruction annually. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the solar industry employed 279,447 workers nationwide as of December 2023, with Rockford, IL, seeing a steady increase in employment opportunities. Apprentices in Rockford earn an average of $580 per week, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $900 per week. Training programs, community colleges, and organizations like NABCEP provide pathways to enter this growing field, which is projected to see a 104% increase in jobs by 2032, offering strong earning potential and career stability.
