Minnesota West Solar Camp Shines Light on Future-Ready Electrical Workforce

	Tim Zinniel and the Solar Camp participants

In Canby, Minnesota, a new kind of training is energizing the next generation of electrical talent—and it’s sparking the interest of contractors across the state.

Hosted by Minnesota West Community and Technical College, “Solar Camp” is a hands-on program that’s introducing students and early-career electricians to the tools, techniques, and technologies of solar energy installation. The camp, part of a broader effort to grow Minnesota’s clean energy workforce, is helping prepare young electricians for a sector that's evolving as quickly as the market demands it.

  

For electrical contractors, this isn’t just another certificate program—it’s a preview of the workforce of tomorrow.

“We’re seeing more interest from students who want to learn solar early in their careers,” said one program instructor. “Contractors who understand this shift and support these learning pathways are positioning themselves as forward-looking employers.”

The program structure is designed to fit into the rhythm of an academic year: a short online course in March leads into three intensive weeks of lab work in May and June. Students work with roof and ground mounts, wire arrays, and gain an understanding of the National Electrical Code as it relates to photovoltaic systems. They graduate with 128 hours of practical solar experience and a Solar PV Technician certificate.

Christine B., a recent graduate from Ridgewater College, said Solar Camp gave her a sense of direction:

“Minnesota West actually sent someone to my class to talk about the program. I thought, ‘Heck yeah, this is exactly what I want to do.’”

Her story reflects the momentum behind clean energy education in Minnesota. It’s not only about new skills—it's about preparing for a future where solar and storage are becoming standard offerings for contractors statewide.

What It Means for Contractors

Electrical contractors who keep an eye on workforce trends should take note: students are entering the job market with baseline solar knowledge and hands-on experience. That changes the conversation at the hiring table—and opens doors for businesses willing to invest in emerging technologies.

Some contractors have already begun partnering with colleges or visiting programs like Solar Camp to connect with students and discuss internship or mentorship opportunities. These early relationships could lead to job placements, apprenticeships, or a pipeline of talent ready to tackle the evolving demands of the trade.

Looking Ahead

As Minnesota advances toward its clean energy goals, programs like Solar Camp aren’t just preparing students—they’re preparing the industry. For contractors, the question is no longer if solar will impact their work, but how soon they’ll need to integrate it into their services.

And for those who want to stay ahead of the curve, the answer might just be waiting in Canby.