Entering the solar trade in St. Louis, IL, 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, requiring a minimum of 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of classroom instruction annually. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that the solar industry employed 279,447 workers nationwide as of December 2023, and with a 5.9% increase from 2022, the industry is poised for continued growth. Solar professionals in St. Louis can expect to earn an average weekly wage of $761.89, with experienced workers earning up to $899.24 per week. Programs like NABCEP certification and local trade schools provide pathways to this growing field, offering strong earning potential and a stable career in the clean energy sector.
