According to a report by the Solar Foundation released October 13, 2010; Michigan has the 4th largest number of solar energy jobs…

in the country (behind California, Pennsylvania, and Texas).  The National Solar Jobs Census reported that over 6,000 workers are spending at least half of their time designing, manufacturing, selling, installing or maintaining solar energy systems.  Nationwide, 93,000 Americans are working in this booming industry!! 

It is becoming increasingly important to become involved in the solar industry with the rising costs of electricity and the increased demand for solar.  Solar grew 36% last year despite the economic downturn and it is estimated that 2010 will be a record year for solar installations and manufacturing.  According to U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis, the government’s focus on solar power has a lot to do with the recent boom in the industry. “Among other things, this study shows that investments made through the Recovery Act — including the $2.3 billion in tax credits to U.S. based clean energy manufacturing — are already generating positive results… The solar energy sector is an increasingly important source of good jobs for Americans.  Fostering the growth of this emerging industry will help protect our environment, ensure the U.S. remains competitive in the global economy, and offer great opportunities for the nation’s working families,” Solis said in a Solar Foundation press release.

Despite the poor job market, solar companies are having a hard time finding qualified workers in this emerging industry.  Over the next year, the solar jobs most in demand are expected to be: solar panel installers, electricians and roofers with experience in solar installations, and salespeople for solar equipment and installations.  There is no better time than NOW to get the training needed to work in one of the fastest growing industries!  Be part of a bigger picture and make a difference in the solar industry with US Solar Institute—the finest solar education and real world training available at any price.

Click here to see training schedule.

Original article was posted here.