Solar Training Pipeline Program

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Building a skilled workforce for Illinois' growing solar industry​
The Solar Training Pipeline Program develops a pool of qualified solar installers to meet the needs of Illinois’s expanding clean energy market. Established under the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA), the program supports training that prepares participants for entry-level jobs and apprenticeships in solar energy installation and related fields.​

What the Solar Training Pipeline Program Provides​​

Hands-on solar installation and safety training

Workforce readiness and industry-recognized instruction

Dedicated funding to support​​​ training for:
  • ​Individuals who are or were in the foster care system
  • Returning residents re-entering the workforce​

Program Goals

  • Build a sustainable pipeline of skilled solar energy professionals
  • Expand access to clean energy careers for historically underrepresented populations
  • Support the success of Illinois solar for All and Renewable Portfolio Standard projects

Career Pathways and Employer Connections

Participants who complete the program are prepared for entry-level positions in solar installation and related clean energy fields or can advance into registered apprenticeship programs.

Employers can:

  • Connect with program completers who are job-ready and trained in solar installation
  • Strengthen their workforce with skilled individuals prepared to meet clean energy project demands


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Find Your Solar Pipeline Tracking Program (FEJA)
​​To learn more about these programs, contact a Navigator near you​.​​
Quad County Urban League
Quad County Urban League Inc.
Aurora
Katrina Henderson
katrinahenderson@qcul.org
630-851-2703​​
OAI Inc
OAI Inc.
Chicago
Sandra Dafiaghor
sdafiaghor@oaiinc.org​
708-283-5004
KLEO Community Family Life Center
KLEO Community Family Life Center
Chicago
Erin Cross
ecross@kleocenter.org​
708-878-2423
Illinois Community College District 514
Illinois Community College District 514
East Peoria
Paula Nachtrieb
paula.nachtrieb@icc.edu
309-690-6845
Community Development Center
Community Development Center
Chicago
Aaron Royster
aroyster@cydihs.org
773-224-2273
Comprehensive Community Solutions
Comp​​rehensive Community Solutions
Rockford
William Chatman
wchatman@ccsrockford.org
815-721-2163
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Find Your Illinois Energy Transition Navigator
Employers can connect with an ET Navigator to gain access to participants who have completed the FEJA Solar Pipeline Training Program and are ready to begin positions with clean energy employers. Employers may also find qualified workers through the Illinois Power Agency's Energy Workforce Equity Portal.