Solar Workforce Development Training
Explore career opportunities. Gain skills and certification. Become a leader in Tribal Energy Sovereignty.
Program Overview
The Bay Mills Community College Solar Workforce Development Program provides free online training, optional in-person field days, and the opportunity to pursue NABCEP certification. The program equips Tribal members and local community members with the skills needed for careers in solar installation and clean energy fields.
The online training program is not for college credit but includes certificate of completion which qualifies successful participants to test for North American (NABCEP) certification exam. Participation in this program does not constitute enrollment as a Bay Mills Community College student unless otherwise formally enrolled in a credit-bearing academic program.
New for 2027, participants will have the option to engage in a hands-on solar electrical lab designed to reinforce concepts learned in the online training. This in-person lab experience will provide practical exposure to wiring, system components, and basic solar electrical techniques in a supervised learning environment. The lab is intended to build participant confidence and readiness for entry-level solar installation work while supporting preparation for NABCEP certification. Solar electrical lab dates are still to be determined.
The optional in-person educational field days will be available in Brimley at the Bay Mills Solar Installation on M221. Field day education will be led by Harvest Solar. Gear and supplies will be provided to support field day safety, and participants will be able to keep their gear to add to their future solar jobsite readiness. These dates are dependent on spring construction season and therefore dates are to be determined.
Chi miigwech to the Bay Mills Indian Community for making the Solar Workforce Development Program possible through their EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant.
Program Highlights
- Online, self-paced coursework with instructor support
- Optional hands-on field days at the Bay Mills Solar Installation
- Hands-on solar electrical lab (NEW for 2027!)
- Certificate of completion qualifying participants to sit for NABCEP exams
- NABCEP certification fees covered by BMCC
2027 Program Timeline
- Applications open: January 4 – January 24, 2027
- Selection notifications: February 17, 2027
- Online courses begin: February 27, 2027
- Space is limited to 25 participants
How to Apply
Online application link will be updated here on January 4, 2027 when the application window opens.
Paper applications available at: Bay Mills Community College Student Success Center, Adikameg Hall, 12214 W Lakeshore Dr, Brimley, MI 49715.
Completed applications may be returned to the same location.
Application questions: Contact Kat Jacques at [email protected] or (906) 248-8491.
Course Details
PVOL101: Solar Electric Design & Installation (Grid-Direct)
- Dates: February 15 – April 11, 2027
- Instructor support for first six weeks
- Two weeks additional self-paced completion time
- Estimated time commitment: 10–20 hours per week
PVOL203: PV System Fundamentals (Battery-Based)
- Dates: April 12 – June 6, 2027
- Instructor support for first six weeks
- Two weeks additional self-paced completion time
- Estimated time commitment: 10–20 hours per week
Program Contacts
Bay Mills Community College Contact:
Kat Jacques, Academic Affairs Specialist — [email protected] | (906) 248-8491
Bay Mills Indian Community Solar Project Contacts:
James Neuenschwander, Community Resilience Coordinator — [email protected]
Jim Wilson, Energy Facilities Manager — [email protected]