Community Corner
LOCAL SOLAR FIRM HIRES FROM GRID ALTERNATIVES TO BUILD GREEN COLLARED WORKFORCE
Sullivan Solar Power Supports On Site Job Training Through Non-Profit
SAN DIEGO, CA (March 27, 2014) – 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 higher education. 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.
“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.”
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.”
BUILD GREEN COLLARED WORKFORCE
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. To learn more about GRID or solar for your property please call
1.800.SULLIVAN or visit www.SullivanSolarPower.com