Built a workforce training program to support new careers.
Challenge
Everyday Energy, a full-service solar company serving affordable housing communities, was scaling in a rapidly growing industry and faced a critical labor shortage.
At the same time, many residents in the communities it served, including a significant number of veterans, were seeking employment and marketable skills.
The business opportunity was clear: address workforce needs while creating economic opportunity for the communities Everyday Energy served.
Approach
Following discussions with property owners and experts in solar grant funding, it became clear that workforce development could directly support both business growth and community impact.
Everyday Energy’s leadership asked me to expand my role beyond marketing and event management to lead the development of a workforce training program. I accepted the opportunity to apply my instructional design and sustainability to build a practical, job-ready learning experience.
Solution
I led the development of a hands-on workforce training program focused on solar installation fundamentals and job readiness.
- Program Design: Defined learning objectives aligned to real-world installation requirements and safety standards.
- Expert Partnership: Partnered with Brian Hurd of Hands-On Solar to ensure technical accuracy and industry relevance.
- Curriculum Development: Designed and delivered a blended training program combining classroom instruction, safety workshops, and hands-on installation experience.
- Program Delivery: Launched training directly within affordable housing communities, reducing barriers to participation and access.
Results
The program successfully trained residents and veterans for entry-level solar installation roles while directly supporting Everyday Energy’s workforce needs.
- Recognized by the Obama Administration for workforce training in affordable housing communities
- Served as a model for the California Public Utilities Commission, influencing requirements for resident training on state-incentivized solar projects
- Qualified as a Community Development Activity under the Community Reinvestment Act
The program demonstrated how targeted workforce education can fuel business growth while delivering measurable community and policy impact.