# Solar Program to Train Troops for Civilian Careers - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/04/solar-program-to-train-troops-for-civilian-careers/ - Published: 2015-04-08T17:05:34-04:00 - Author: greenlivingguy _⌊Globally plus locally everyone wants solar⌉⌊Globally plus locally everyone wants solar⌉Obama: Solar Program to Train Troops for Civilian Careers_ _04/03/2015 05: 42 PM CDT_ **_By Amaani Lyle_** **_DoD News, Defense Media Activity_** WASHINGTON, April 3, 2015 – As the solar industry continues to create new jobs and spur the economy, President Barack Obama announced today at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, significant strides to prime separating service members for entry into the workforce. [⌊Two workers installing solar panels on a rooftop, showcasing renewable energy efforts.⌉⌊Two workers installing solar panels on a rooftop, showcasing renewable energy efforts.⌉[ Solar panels being installed as part of the Solar Ready Vets program, aimed at providing job training for service members transitioning to civilian careers in the renewable energy sector. Obama reported an overall goal to train 75,000 workers for the renewable energy industry by 2020. “As part of this, we’re creating what we’re calling a ‘Solar Ready Vets’ program,” he said, “… modeled after some successful pilot initiatives … established over the last several years.” Hill is one of 10 military installations slated to participate, he noted. Solar Ready Vets, the president said, is “one of the many steps we’re taking to help nearly 700,000 [service members,] veterans and military spouses get a job.” > **_“As part of this effort, we’re also going to work with states to enable more > veterans to use the Post-9/11 GI Bill for solar job training,” he said._** That educational funding would enable more veterans to participate in the job-driven training program. The solar industry, Obama said, offers “good-paying jobs.” He added, “Today what we’re going to try to do is to build on the progress that’s already been made.” ### Training Initiatives Expanding Solar Ready Vets is underway at Camp Pendleton, California, Fort Carson, Colorado, and Naval Station Norfolk, [Virginia](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/07/greenpower-motor-to-begin-manufacturing-electric-school-buses-this-fall-in-west-virginia-facility/). This marks a significant step forward in preparing veterans for careers in the renewable energy sector. All of these locations announced pilot initiatives earlier this year. They aim to provide comprehensive training and certification programs. This will equip service members with the necessary skills to thrive in the expanding solar industry. By collaborating with local businesses and organizations, these initiatives enhance the employability of veterans. They also contribute to sustainable energy practices in their respective communities. The Energy and Defense departments are joining efforts in the Solar Ready Vets initiative, DoD officials said. DoE’s “SunShot” Solar Instructor Training Network will leverage DoD’s Skillbridge. This program allows service members to participate in job training— including apprenticeships and internships — beginning up to six months before they leave the military. Under the program, service members will learn how to size and install solar panels, connect electricity to the grid, and interpret and comply with local building codes. According to White House officials, the accelerated training will prepare troops for careers as installers, sales representatives, system inspectors and other solar- related occupations. ## **National Security Includes Economic Security** > **_“One of the most important aspects of national security is strong economic > security,” Obama said. “We can’t maintain the best military that the world has > ever known unless we also have an economy that’s humming.”_** ### **Employers Eyeing More Veterans** The president noted that the solar industry is adding jobs 10 times faster than the rest of the economy, making it a promising prospect for veterans. “Employers are starting to catch on if you really want to get the job done, hire a veteran,” Obama said. “What is true for DoD has to be true for the entire country,” the president said. U.S.[ energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/08/10-largest-wind-project-development-2022/) is “going to provide enormous prospects for jobs and careers for a whole lot of folks out there if we continue to make this investment,” he added. (Follow Amaani Lyle on Twitter: @[LyleDODNews](https://mobile.twitter.com/LyleDODNews)) at USDOD ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641? s=300&d=monsterid&r=g) greenlivingguy The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. 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