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Local Voices

Sullivan Solar Power Hires From GRID Alternatives To Build Green Collared Workforce

Local Southern California renewable energy firm, Sullivan Solar Power hired Lead Foreman from workforce training non-profit, GRID Alternatives. GRID offers free solar installation classes to build green collared workforce.  Matt Blench, who is now employed by Sullivan Solar Power is a product of the GRID Alternative training program.

 

Matt Blench became interested in solar while pursuing a degree in Finance at CSU Chico using the GI Bill to put himself through college. During summer breaks he would work with his Dad on electrical jobs in his hometown, San Diego. Blench graduated during the economic downturn of 2008, unable to find work in his field he decided to pursue a career in the solar industry.

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“The solar industry was just taking off when I graduated from Chico. Solar was the future and had unlimited growth opportunities,” said Matt Blench, Lead Foreman at Sullivan Solar Power. “I needed a place to gain experience to secure work in the solar industry and GRID offered that.”  

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Mr. Blench first learned about GRID Alternatives from a colleague who suggested that he learn more and get involved with GRID. GRID Alternatives offers free training to those who want to learn more about solar. At the time, Matt recalls there were a variety of professionals in his class ranging from: students, graduates, architects’, engineers, finance professionals all seeking educational trainings to learn more about solar.

 

After learning how to install solar photovoltaic systems at the Barrio Logan facility, Matt was able to secure full time job in the solar field and has worked in the industry for the past seven years. In 2011 he was hired as a Foreman at Sullivan Solar Power and was promoted to Lead Foreman in early 2012.

 

“The pace at Sullivan is fast but the quality of work is top notch,” said Matt Blench. “We have certified electricians working at Sullivan Solar Power who ensure jobs are correctly installed.”

 

GRID Alternatives is a great opportunity to learn more about solar building from the basics. Matt was able to build a career in the solar industry starting with the GRID training program and hopes to transition from a field position into Project Management. Mr. Blench credits GRID Alternatives to his job security and professional growth.

 

Sullivan Solar Power partnered with GRID last year to donate one solar panel for each new customer. It is expected that Sullivan Solar Power will donate 90 solar power systems to low income families. This year marks GRID Alternatives 10th year anniversary.

 

Interested in getting your first quote today? Local solar company, Sullivan Solar Power, provides free site evaluations. The company is currently running the Orange County Solar Program now through December 31, a cash-back solar incentive program for Orange County residents. Residents are eligible to receive up to $2,000 cash-back. To learn more visit www.OCSolarProgram.com or call 1-800-SULLIVAN today to schedule your free site evaluation. Don’t miss your opportunity to get paid to go solar with this countywide program. 

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