The Solar & Weatherization Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a workforce development initiative led by Sustainable Georgia Futures that prepares participants for careers in the clean energy sector. Through hands-on training and industry instruction, apprentices build the foundational skills needed to pursue careers in solar installation, weatherization, and building performance.
Solar & Weatherization Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Preparing community members for careers in the clean energy workforce.
Program Summary
About the Program
Launched in the summer of 2025 as a pilot initiative, the Solar & Weatherization Pre-Apprenticeship Program was designed to introduce community members to career pathways within the clean energy industry. The program combines hands-on instruction with classroom learning to help apprentices build practical experience and technical knowledge.
The pilot cohort ran from June 23 through August 15, bringing apprentices together for in-person classroom instruction several days each week. The program was offered as a paid opportunity.
Throughout the program, apprentices engaged in a series of learning modules covering key areas within the industry. Training included introductory trades and solar fundamentals, weatherization practices, OSHA safety training, and career preparation to support apprentices as they explored next steps in the field.
Instruction was led by experienced professionals working across the energy efficiency, construction, and sustainable building industries, who shared their knowledge and real-world experience throughout the program.
As Sustainable Georgia Futures continues to expand workforce development opportunities, the Solar & Weatherization Pre-Apprenticeship Program remains an important part of our long-term vision to prepare community members for careers in the clean energy economy. Future cohorts are planned, and updates will be shared through SGF’s website and social media channels.
Program Structure
The pilot cohort followed a seven-week training schedule that combined classroom instruction with hands-on learning.
Weeks 1–2
Intro to Trades & Solar Fundamentals
Weeks 3–4
Weatherization Training
Weeks 5–6
OSHA Safety Training
Week 7
Career Preparation & Transition
What Apprentices Gain
Apprentices in the Solar & Weatherization Pre-Apprenticeship Program gain hands-on exposure to the skills and knowledge needed to begin exploring careers in the clean energy sector.
Apprentices receive:
- Hands-on training in solar and weatherization fundamentals
- Exposure to building science and energy efficiency practices
- OSHA safety training and workplace readiness skills
- Career preparation and guidance for entering the clean energy workforce
A paid training opportunity with wrap-around support services, including childcare
Instructors
Instruction was provided by experienced professionals working across the energy efficiency, construction, and sustainable building industries.
Nicole Lee
Nicole Lee is a pioneer in the green building space and the first Black woman certified by Georgia Power as an Energy Auditor in the state of Georgia. She holds numerous industry certifications, including RESNET, HERS Rater, BPI Building Analyst, NASEB Solar Installer, and Energy Star. Nicole brings extensive experience in energy auditing, construction, and sustainable housing, and is deeply committed to serving underserved communities across Georgia.
Cosco Eric Jones
Cosco Eric Jones is a builder and advocate for sustainable communities with a Master’s degree in Building Science from Virginia Tech. His career has included work with AmeriCorps, Habitat for Humanity, and the EarthCraft program. Cosco is the founder of Jones Sustainable Solutions Group and currently serves on the boards of Eco Action and the City of Atlanta’s Clean Energy Advisory Council.
James Metoyer III
James Metoyer III is an energy efficiency professional with more than a decade of industry experience. As Executive Director of EnerCity Collaborative, he works to ensure that the benefits of the clean energy economy reach BIPOC and frontline communities. James holds multiple industry credentials, including BPI, PTCS, SHP, Home Energy Score, HERS Rater, and LEED Green Rater.
Pilot Cohort Participants
The inaugural cohort included:
Tracy Jones
Kartel Brown
Stephanie Sutton
Ronald McMillan III
Stay Connected
Stay informed about upcoming programs, community events, and opportunities to get involved.
