The HLSCC’s Workforce Training Division, Centre for Professional Development and Community Education (CPDCE) in conjunction with Power52 Caribbean Energy Institute (CEI) awarded thirty-nine participants with a certificate from the National Center for Construction Education & Research, North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration after completing an 11-week Solar Energy Technician Training.
The training’s first cohort, which consisted of 39 persons, underwent a comprehensive full-time training in basic fundamentals, classroom theory, laboratory projects and field work and is now certified to utilise their training anywhere in the world.
Of the thirty-nine awardees, five of them were women. Dean of Workforce Training Division, Mrs. Marva Wheatley-Dawson said, “The Solar Technician training programme was envisioned to fill industry gaps where trained persons are needed to fill jobs in a fast-growing industry. In the British Virgin Islands, we are well positioned to use renewable energy which is fueled by our abundance of sunshine.”
Mrs. Wheatley-Dawson added, “Our awardees, who we are celebrating today, received high-quality training over 11 weeks of instruction that was delivered by Power 52 Caribbean Energy Institute. They were trained by master trainers and skilled craftsman: Mr. Damon Moulden, Ms. Kellyann Few, and Mr. Robert Wallace. Our participants’ success are a result of hard work and excellent training to industry standards. Delivering this training in the midst of Covid-19 with social distancing and with a large class had its challenges but they remained resilient, they were cohesive, and they finished strong.”
As the Territory advances to clean green alternative options, this training aimed to prepare and cover basic principles and technical skills in developing and maintaining solar powered energy systems.
Students enrolled in the training obtained an in-depth knowledge in Construction Basics & Safety, Solar 101 & Maintenance, Project Management, Life & Leadership Skills, and other components relevant to solar energy.
HLSCC embraces the relationships that have been formed with its sponsors and wishes to thank them for their support in the development of our people: The Premier’s Office, Government of the Virgin Islands; Unite BVI Foundation; BVI Electricity Corporation; Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Hon. Shereen Flax[1]Charles; Representative for the 6th Electoral District, Hon. Alvera Maduro-Caines; and Power 52 Caribbean Energy Institute.