INA, Ill. (May 26, 2026) — As demand for renewable energy continues to rise across the country, employers are looking for skilled workers who can install, troubleshoot, and maintain the systems powering the future. At Rend Lake College, the new Renewable Energy Certificate is designed to help students step into that growing industry quickly and confidently.
Whether you’re just beginning your career, changing industries, or looking to add valuable technical skills to your résumé, this program offers hands-on training that can open the door to careers in solar energy and renewable technologies.
A Career Field That’s Growing Fast
The renewable energy industry is no longer a niche field. It is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the workforce today.
According to national employment projections, jobs for solar photovoltaic installers are expected to grow by 48 percent through 2033 — much faster than the average for all occupations. Thousands of new job openings are expected each year as companies across the country expand operations and experienced workers retire from the field.
Closer to home, the regional solar industry is projected to continue growing steadily through 2027, creating opportunities for trained technicians across Southern Illinois and beyond.
Graduates entering the field can pursue careers such as:
- Renewable energy technician
- Solar photovoltaic installer
- Energy auditor
- Electrical systems technician
- Maintenance and troubleshooting specialist
Many positions in the industry can lead to earnings up to approximately $60,000 annually.
Built for Today’s Workforce
The Renewable Energy Certificate was developed through support from a Title III grant initiative focused on preparing students for high-demand careers and strengthening workforce development opportunities in the region.
The program is designed to serve a wide range of students, including:
- Recent high school graduates
- Adult learners seeking a new career path
- Workers transitioning from another industry
- Skilled trades professionals looking to expand their expertise
Students gain foundational knowledge in renewable energy systems while also learning practical electrical, mechanical, and industrial skills that employers value.
Hands-On Skills for Real-World Jobs
This 16-credit-hour occupational certificate combines classroom instruction with technical, career-focused training. Students will learn:
- Renewable energy system fundamentals
- Commercial load calculations and energy audits
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy generation
- PV installation standards and safety
- Industrial wiring techniques
- Workplace employability skills
Courses include:
- Intro to Renewable Energy Systems
- Commercial Load Calc and Energy Audits
- PV Alternative Energy Generation
- PV Installations and Standards
- Industrial Wiring
- Employability Skills
These courses are designed to prepare students for entry-level employment while building a strong technical foundation that can continue into future career advancement.
Power the Future — Starting Now
Renewable energy is changing the way the world works, and trained technicians are needed to help lead that transition.
At RLC, students can gain affordable, career-ready training in a field with long-term growth potential and real workforce demand.
Ready to build skills for a high-growth industry and explore opportunities in renewable energy? Now is the time to get started. Click here to fill out a quick interest form and we'll be in touch.
