Infinite Solar conducts new West Coast classes

Infinite Solar training opens West Coast schoolInfinite Solar recently announced it’s launching a West Coast solar training program.

Pennsylvania-based Infinite Solar has offered comprehensive solar training for professionals working in related fields like electricians, plumbers, roofers and general contractors to transition into a green career in solar installation.

The training programs have been popular and have long drawn people from all over the country, especially California, said solar technical specialist Ivan Svedov.

Because the school already drew so many students from the West Coast and the solar industry is obviously growing there, the founders decided to answer requests for a West Coast location with courses at a partner's facility.

Infinite partnered with Auxin Solar in San Jose, Calif. and will use its facilities for courses.

“Our main focus is on helping contractors in related fields,” Svedov said. “By the end of the five days – 40 hours – they have all the components and knowledge to work in the solar industry.”

Svedov said the program focuses on hands-on and practical experience.

The program started when Infinite owners, who had an HVAC business wanted to transition into solar. They had trouble finding a certification program that equipped them with the actual skills they needed for the job.

They decided to fill the gap themselves, Svedov said.

“We really stress real-life experience,” he said. “Students actually do a full install while they’re here.”

On top of the hands-on experience, the school also prepares students for NABCEP Etry Level exam and administers it. The program is accredited by IREC and licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The expansion to the West Coast was a natural next step for Infinite.

“In 2012, the Golden State is expected to install 1,432 megawatts of solar power,” according to the school’s promotional material. “This is nearly a 150 percent growth over 2011.”

The state is going to need trained and capable professionals to do the work, Svedov said.