Program Overview
PVCC's Solar Technician program prepares students for entry-level roles in solar system design, installation, and maintenance. This G3 program offers free tuition, fees, and books to eligible students. The program covers topics such as solar energy fundamentals, system design, and troubleshooting, and prepares graduates for careers in the growing solar industry.
Program Outline
Solar Technician Program at Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC):
Degree Overview:
The Solar Technician program at PVCC prepares students for entry-level employment in the design, installation, and maintenance of residential photovoltaic (PV) systems.
This G3 program offers free tuition, fees, and books to eligible students.
The program aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to:
- Design, install, and maintain solar systems.
- Understand the fundamentals of solar energy.
- Utilize tools and equipment commonly used in the solar industry.
- Troubleshoot and repair solar systems.
- Follow safety protocols and regulations.
Outline:
The program consists of 40 contact hours and covers the following modules:
- Markets and Applications: This module introduces students to the growing solar energy market and the various applications of solar PV systems.
- Electricity Basics: This module provides students with a foundational understanding of electricity, including concepts such as voltage, current, and resistance.
- Solar Energy Fundamentals: This module explores the science behind solar energy, including the photovoltaic effect and how solar cells convert sunlight into electricity.
- Module Fundamentals: This module covers the different types of solar modules, their characteristics, and how they are connected to form a solar array.
- System Components: This module examines the various components of a solar PV system, including inverters, charge controllers, batteries, and wiring.
- System Sizing Principles: This module teaches students how to size a solar PV system to meet the energy needs of a specific application.
- System Electrical and Mechanical Design: This module covers the electrical and mechanical design principles of solar PV systems.
- Performance Analysis: This module teaches students how to analyze the performance of a solar PV system and identify areas for improvement.
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting: This module provides students with the skills and knowledge to maintain and troubleshoot solar PV systems.
Assessment:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Written exams: These exams assess students' understanding of the theoretical concepts covered in the program.
- Hands-on projects: These projects allow students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world situations.
- Performance-based assessments: These assessments measure students' ability to perform specific tasks related to solar PV system design, installation, and maintenance.
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced instructors with expertise in the solar industry. The instructors use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, hands-on activities, and field trips. The program also emphasizes safety and encourages students to ask questions and participate actively in class.
Careers:
Graduates of the Solar Technician program are prepared for entry-level positions in the solar industry, such as:
- Solar installer
- Solar technician
- Service technician
- Project manager The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of solar installers and technicians will grow by 54% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Other:
- The program is offered through PVCC's Workforce Services division.
- Students may be eligible for financial assistance to help cover the cost of tuition and fees.
- Program Dean: Christy Hawkins
- Faculty Contact: Donald Davis or Thomas Eanes
- Workforce Services: 434-961-5276
Piedmont Virginia Community College: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) is a public two-year institution offering a wide range of academic and workforce development programs. It serves the Charlottesville and Albemarle County area, providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population.
Services Offered:
PVCC offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Advising:
Personalized guidance on course selection, program planning, and career exploration.Academic Support:
Resources like tutoring, writing center, and academic coaching to enhance learning.Financial Aid:
Assistance with scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans to make education affordable.Career Services:
Guidance on job searching, resume writing, interview preparation, and internship opportunities.Student Success Services:
Programs and resources to help students navigate college life and achieve their goals.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and study spaces.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, supplies, and PVCC merchandise.Mental Health Services:
Counseling and support for students' emotional well-being.Veterans Services:
Dedicated support for veterans and their families.Campus Life:
Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, organizations, events, and the student newspaper.Student Life and Campus Experience:
PVCC fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:
Active Student Government Association (SGA):
Representing student interests and organizing events.Diverse Student Clubs and Organizations:
Opportunities to connect with peers and explore interests.Civic Engagement Initiatives:
Encouraging students to participate in community service and civic life.Panther Fitness Center:
Access to fitness facilities for student well-being.Campus Safety:
A dedicated campus police department and safety resources for student security.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordable and Accessible Education:
PVCC offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.High-Quality Programs:
PVCC provides a wide range of academic and workforce development programs.Strong Transfer Pathways:
PVCC offers seamless transfer options to four-year universities.Dedicated Faculty and Staff:
PVCC boasts a committed faculty and staff dedicated to student success.Vibrant Campus Community:
PVCC fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment.Academic Programs:
PVCC offers a variety of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Humanities, Fine Arts and Social Sciences:
English, History, Art, Music, Psychology, Sociology, and more.Health and Life Sciences:
Nursing, Biology, Medical Assisting, and more.Business, Mathematics, and Technologies:
Business Administration, Accounting, Computer Science, and more.Other:
PVCC also offers:
Distance Learning:
Online courses and programs for flexible learning.Dual Enrollment:
Opportunities for high school students to earn college credit.Early College Program:
A program for high school students to earn college credit and a high school diploma.English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL):
Programs to support English language learners.Workforce Development:
Short-term training programs and customized training for businesses.Community Engagement:
PVCC actively engages with the community through various programs and events.Note:
This summary is based on the provided context and may not include all aspects of PVCC.
Entry Requirements:
- Age: Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
- Minimum Essential Functions and Standards: Meet the program's minimum essential functions and standards.
- Funding Assistance Paperwork: Complete all funding assistance paperwork (if applicable) before enrollment.
- English Language Learners (ELL/ESL): If English is not the student's first language, they must complete a CASAS assessment with an acceptable score before program admission.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English Language Learner (ELL/ESL) requirements are described in the "Entry Requirements" section above.
