Go Solar Academy Featured in HeatSpring Magazine: Empowering the Next Generation of Solar Professionals

Written By Go Solar Education

We’re excited to announce that Go Solar Academy has been highlighted in HeatSpring Magazine, one of the renewable energy industry’s most respected training and education platforms. This feature recognizes the impact we are making in developing a skilled, future-ready solar workforce—and shines a spotlight on our mission to inspire young people to explore meaningful careers in clean energy.

As demand for solar energy continues to rise across the United States, the need for well-trained, job-ready professionals has never been greater. At Go Solar Academy, we are proud to help meet that need by delivering hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and career pathways that empower students to succeed in a rapidly growing sector.

Why HeatSpring Featured Go Solar Academy

HeatSpring Magazine shared our story because our approach is unique—and it works.

Founded by Joaquin “JT” Thomas, Go Solar Academy blends real-world solar installation experience with strong educational practices. The magazine highlights JT’s journey from rooftop classrooms to structured Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that have become a model for youth workforce development.

The article brings attention to several strengths that set Go Solar Academy apart:

1. Hands-On Learning that Mirrors Real Jobs

From day one, students gain practical experience using the tools, technologies, and safety practices that solar installers use in the field. This creates confidence, competence, and career readiness.

2. Industry-Recognized Credentials for High School Students

Our CTE program prepares students for valuable certifications including:

  • NABCEP PV Associate

  • OSHA-10

  • IronRidge

  • Enphase

These credentials give students an immediate competitive advantage in the job market.

3. Flexible Training Models for Schools

HeatSpring highlights how we’ve adapted our instruction into shorter, week-long “punch-in workshops” that fit seamlessly into school schedules—making solar training more accessible than ever.

4. Support for Second-Chance and Re-Entry Learners

Beyond youth programs, we partner with workforce agencies that help adult learners, including returning citizens, gain technical skills and re-enter the workforce with dignity and opportunity.

5. Real Success Stories with Real Impact

The article features a standout student who leveraged his training to launch a solar division within his family’s roofing business—just six months after completing the program. Stories like this reflect the power of early exposure and hands-on solar education.

Expanding Our Reach and Evolving with the Industry

HeatSpring also highlights our expansion plans as we prepare to bring Go Solar Academy programs to new cities including Denver and Madison. To stay ahead of industry demand, our curriculum now includes timely and relevant topics such as:

  • Energy storage systems

  • Data center power infrastructure

  • AI-driven energy technologies

This ensures our students are prepared not only for today’s solar jobs, but for the clean-energy careers of the future.

What This Recognition Means for the Solar Workforce

Being featured in HeatSpring Magazine reinforces the importance of making solar education accessible to young people. As the industry grows, workforce shortages remain a challenge nationwide. Go Solar Academy is helping solve that challenge by:

  • Introducing students to solar careers earlier

  • Offering real credentials before graduation

  • Connecting learners with employers

  • Supporting historically underserved populations

  • Building a diverse and inclusive renewable energy workforce

This recognition is both an honor and a validation of our mission—and it inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what youth workforce development can achieve.

Read the Full HeatSpring Feature

We invite you to explore the complete article to learn more about our programs, our students, and our vision for the future of solar education.

🔗 Read the full HeatSpring Magazine article here:
https://blog.heatspring.com/celebrating-workforce-development-go-solar-academy/

Join Us in Shaping Tomorrow’s Clean Energy Leaders

Whether you are a school district, educator, funder, employer, or student, Go Solar Academy is committed to supporting your journey into the solar energy industry. Together, we can build a brighter, greener future—one student at a time.

Go Solar Education

#1 green energy and gardening youth education program