This three-day, hands-on Solar PV Boot Camp provides participants with applied exposure to foundational solar energy concepts and small-scale system installation practices. The program emphasizes experiential learning through the assembly, testing, and demonstration of a temporary off-grid solar energy system, allowing participants to visualize energy production, system operation and end-use applications in a controlled educational setting.

Participants will work directly with solar components while gaining practical insight into how small solar systems are designed, installed, and evaluated in the field.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the boot camp, participants will be able to:

  • Demonstrate proper wire termination techniques, including MC4 connector crimping
  • Identify and explain key components of a small off-grid solar system, including modules, racking, charge controllers, batteries, and inverters
  • Perform basic roof attachment and flashing methods using deck mount and scoop mount approaches
  • Explain fundamental battery theory, charge controller function and sizing considerations, and inverter output characteristics
  • Assemble and test a small, temporary solar energy system and verify system performance using basic electrical measurements

Training Format

  • Type: Hands-on solar installation training
  • Duration: Three (3) instructional days
  • Project Size: Small, temporary off-grid solar installation
  • Maximum Class Size: 15 participants (approximately 12 participants recommended)

System Components & Demonstration Equipment

Participants will work with a temporary training system that includes:

  • Temporary roof structure
  • Three (3) solar modules with racking, rails, and clamps
  • Junction box and DIN rail
  • Off-grid inverter (approximately 1000W)
  • Small battery (approximately 50Ah)
  • Charge controller

System testing and demonstration will include voltage measurements before and after assembly, system operation verification and powering a small electrical load.

Daily Schedule Overview

  • Day 1: Temporary roof construction; solar terminology; roof attachment and flashing practice
  • Day 2: Electrical theory; hands-on wiring; battery and charge controller instruction
  • Day 3: Full system assembly; testing and performance checks; final system demonstration

Location & Requirements

  • Primary Location: Moravian University classroom and adjacent lawn space
  • Indoor backup space available in the event of inclement weather
  • Space required to construct a temporary roof structure and assemble a small solar array

Recommended Attire:
Closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing suitable for light outdoor work. Work gloves and basic personal protective equipment are recommended.

Instructors

The boot camp is led by Solar States, a Certified B Corporation dedicated to expanding access to solar energy and workforce development opportunities.

  • Micah Gold-Markel — Founder of Solar States; Certified Master Electrician (PA, NJ, DE) with over 17 years of experience managing solar installations and maintenance. Recipient of the ImpactPHL Award and named one of Solar Power World’s Top Solar Changemakers.
  • Shanisha Mitchell — Workforce and nonprofit leader with more than 15 years of experience designing job training programs that build strong talent pipelines and lasting community impact.

Camp Details

  • Dates: July 13–15
  • Registration Includes: Access to the July 16 Energy Conference
  • Scholarships Available: Secondary educators, professors and college students
  • Capacity: Limited to 15 participants. Once capacity is reached, registrants will be placed on a waitlist.