January Happy Hour, Celebrating Agents of Change in the Solar Industry

Kicking off 2021, Solar Austin invites you to join us in celebrating the pioneers of the Pathways to Clean Energy Careers program! 

Launched in the midst of a global pandemic and a historic time focusing on racial justice, the Pathways Program was a leap towards a stronger and more equitable clean energy workforce, in a sector that is nationally over 70% white and male. 

Six companies answered Solar Austin’s challenge to create pathways of opportunity for youth in the solar industry this past fall! From residential to utility scale solar installers, these regional employers have nurtured the talent of nine young interns — teaching them the intricacies of working in Texas’ bustling solar sector, while also learning the many ways in which different perspectives add value to the workplace. As fall internships wrap up, we’re excited to celebrate with our Austin community the amazing interns and clean energy professionals who helped move the needle towards a renewable energy sector that more accurately represents our community. 

January’s happy hour will be an opportunity to hear program participants’ candid views on the value of and barriers to a diverse and inclusive local clean energy workforce. Solar Austin looks forward to your attendance, support, and participation as we take a moment to reflect on what was accomplished, what needs to be changed, and what we can all do to create better pathways for passionate individuals that want to make a difference for their underrepresented communities and our warming planet.