Solar Installer Qualification (CITF)
The IKORCC JATF (UBC-CITF) 24-hour Solar Installer Qualification is a standardized curriculum developed by the Carpenters International Training Fund and delivered through regional training centers across the country. Participants begin with a comprehensive overview of photovoltaic (PV) applications, including rooftop residential, commercial flat roof, ground mount, and utility scale systems. This is followed by instruction in fundamental solar electric principles such as irradiance, module output, voltage, current, power, series and parallel wiring, and forecasting of energy production. Safety is integrated throughout the training. The course emphasizes OSHA construction site requirements, fall protection systems, hazards related to direct current arcs and electric shock, lockout and tagout procedures, and the proper use of personal protective equipment. This ensures that installers can identify and reduce risks specific to PV work. The curriculum then progresses into proficiency with individual system components and overall system design. Trainees gain experience handling and installing crystalline silicon and thin film modules, inverters, combiner boxes, disconnect switches, batteries, charge controllers, mounting racks, flashings, bonding and grounding equipment, and monitoring systems. Practical labs require proper torque application, routing of conductors, weatherproofing, and layout of arrays on wood frame, metal deck, and membrane roofing as well as ground mounted structures. At the same time, classroom instruction covers techniques for assessing installation sites, including evaluation of solar resources, shading, roof structure, wind and snow loads, and optimal orientation and tilt of arrays. Instruction also includes equipment sizing, configuration of strings, voltage and temperature calculations, and battery bank design for independent or hybrid systems. Students study relevant articles of the National Electrical Code, local construction codes, and utility connection requirements, culminating in the production of permit-ready documents and quality control checklists. The program concludes with exposure to emerging technologies such as bifacial panels, microinverters, rapid shutdown devices, and integrated energy storage. By the end of the 24-hour course, participants will have demonstrated the foundational knowledge and practical ability required of entry level PV professionals, equipping them to pursue industry certifications or contribute effectively to safe and code-compliant solar installations.Read the Associate Handbook for further credentialing information.
Click on Provider link for class schedule, price & other details.
Course Format Options: In-Person
Length: 24 Hours
Language: EnglishQualifies for PV Associate Exam: Yes