What is SPARC?
The Strengthening Photovoltaic and Renewable Careers (SPARC) Workforce Development Program was established to support the statewide goal to position Colorado as a leader in the clean energy economy by setting a path to reach 100% renewable energy for the electric grid by 2040. To support this effort, the SPARC program provides high-quality education and training opportunities to create high-paying jobs that ultimately support the protection of Colorado’s environment.
Jobs in clean energy are growing in Colorado and across the country. The range of work in the clean energy sector is extremely broad. There are opportunities to work on energy production, storage, and transmission; energy efficient building construction and renovation; the development and installation of solar, wind, and other forms of renewable energy; manufacturing and maintenance of zero emission vehicles; and the developing alternative clean fuels.
The State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education along with the Department of Higher Education are creating opportunities in training, apprenticeship, and educational programs to increase career pathways in the energy sector. Colorado Workforce Centers are supporting this effort by connecting students and job seekers to clean energy opportunities at community colleges in their region. Those interested in exploring their options are encouraged to reach out to the following designated SPARC Navigators or by visiting their local workforce center.
SPARC Navigators
Participating Colorado Community Colleges
Arapahoe Community College
Available Now Fall 2023: The Building Controls Technology program is focused on preparing students for careers that involve the control and management of modern high-tech building systems. The program builds upon a foundation of basic electrical and construction skills, advancing to HVAC systems, lighting, programmable logic controllers, energy efficiency and renewable energy systems.
Coming Soon: The Automotive Service Technology Program is an ASE-certified program and will be expanding to include a full electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance program.
Community College of Aurora
Coming Fall 2024: The Solar PV Systems Technical Certificate in the Science Department will train students for NABCEP aligned photovoltaic (PV) installer positions in the growing Solar Industry. It will include an on-site PV hands-on training lab.
Northeastern Junior College
Available Now: The Wind & Industrial Program prepares students for careers in a variety of industries. Northeastern works hand-in-hand with the local wind sites, adapting and constantly upgrading to match the needs of the industry. The college has a strong relationship with industry partners and meets with them regularly to improve the program.
Pueblo Community College
Available Now: The Industrial Technology Maintenance Program develops essential skills for maintaining the complex electromechanical systems found in modern automated manufacturing facilities. It emphasizes a broad range of skills including print reading, motors and controls, and mechanical components.
Available Now: The Solar Photovoltaic Installer Certificate within the ITM program teaches safety, racking systems, and the installation of electrical and energy storage components.
Available Now: The Automotive Technology Program at PCC is launching its first stand-alone course in Electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance in the Fall of 2023. In addition to the stand-alone course, students gain Electric and hybrid vehicle training throughout PCC’s ASE-certified program.