Moorpark College President Luis Sanchez, JD, LLM, is pleased to announce the re-launch of the Photovoltaics program beginning fall 2016. Photovoltaics (PV), the process of converting solar power into electricity, is one of the fastest growing fields in the United States, claiming one out of every 83 new jobs created in 2015. Annual job growth is 20 percent since 2015 and 123% since 2010, representing more than 115,000 new jobs in the U.S. The workforce is diverse with 24 percent women, 8 percent veterans, 11 percent Hispanic, 9 percent Asian/Pacific Islanders and 5 percent African American.1

“Solar Photovoltaics is quickly becoming an industry of the future,” stated Sanchez. “Individuals and corporations are looking for alternative means of energy production, and the Photovoltaics program, here at Moorpark College, is a chance to become part of a sustainable solution to humanity’s energy challenges,” Sanchez added.

After several searches to find an industry insider who is qualified to lead the program, Moorpark College hired Dr. Peter T. Parrish to teach their two lecture and laboratory courses in solar energy and photovoltaic technologies. Parrish holds a Ph.D. in solid state physics and is a NABCEP™ Certified PV Professional. “Moorpark College has one of the best facilities in Southern California to teach solar photovoltaics and to train students for jobs in the industry,” stated Parrish. The college has three “mock roofs” for students to practice installation of PV modules and several PV systems that can be installed and broken down each term.

“Our goal is to help students acquire skills to fill jobs that are available now,” said Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees Chair Larry Kennedy. “These jobs may also set individuals on a path to long-term career achievement,” Kennedy added.

Solar companies located in Los Angeles and Ventura counties include, American Solar Power, PHAT Energy, Vivent, Solar Electrical Systems and Solar City, the number one solar company in the U.S. In addition to installation, there are job opportunities for design engineers, sales and marketing, assembling and general office staff in solar panels.

Students enrolled in the program can earn a Proficiency Award in Photovoltaic Technology in one to two semesters by taking four courses, including an optional internship at a local solar company. Registration is open and classes begin Wednesday, August 17 and Saturday, August 20. Evening and Saturday classes are available to accommodate working adults. For more information on the program, contact Dr. Peter P. Parrish at 323-839-6108 or pparrish@vcccd.edu; or the Moorpark College Sciences and Student Engagement Division at 805-553-4133 or mcscistuengmt@vcccd.edu.

The Solar Foundation’s National Solar Jobs Census 2016. Retrieved from http://www.thesolarfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/TSF-2015-Na...