Students Learn About Careers in Solar Energy
At Unionville High School, students in math and science classes are engaging with real-time power production data from solar panels and even getting on the roof to see the system in action. This hands-on experience is a key aspect of their education.
Similarly, Universal Audenried Charter High School pursued the Solar for Schools grant partly for its educational benefits. Anderson noted that many emerging jobs exist in hands-on industries like electronics and electricity.
The solar array on Audenried’s roof provides opportunities for students in the engineering career and technical education program to learn how to connect, disconnect, and service solar panels. Working with Solar States, the school plans to establish a “solar lab” for students to gather real-time data on energy production.
Senior Richie Palillero, 17, expressed an interest in mechanical or robotics engineering and curiosity about the new solar panels.
As they observed the crane lifting materials onto the roof, teacher Gold-Markel highlighted the earnings of workers involved in the installation. He mentioned that the crane operator might earn about $80 an hour, while workers installing the solar panels could make around $100 an hour. When he asked who wanted to earn that amount, several students raised their hands, illustrating their enthusiasm for careers in solar energy.
