As Sailors across the Navy reach the end of their contracts, there are many decisions they must face. For many of these Sailors the biggest of these decisions comes down to one, seemingly simple question: "What's next?" Fortunately, because of a new Navy program some soon-to-be former Sailors are finding the answer to that question in a technology of the future. The U.S. Department of Energy-sponsored initiative known as Solar Ready Vets is a five-week training program providing the technical knowledge necessary to begin a career in the solar industry. This course is offered at the Tidewater Community College Chesapeake campus in partnership with Pennsylvania State University and provides students with training and employment opportunities in the emerging field of solar energy technology. Retired Master Chief Naval Aircrewman (Avionics) Barry Rice, a program instructor at the Solar Ready Vets program, recently explained what those interested in enrolling in the course could expect. This includes technical training in preparation for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) exam. Passing this exam allows students to receive a Photovoltaic Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge, a fundamental credential within the industry. On Fridays, students receive training from an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) instructor, receiving a Construction Safety and Health training card by the end of the course. "Our third focus is on the service member's transition into the civilian sector," said Rice. "We assist the students with resume reviews, provide exposure to veterans that are presently employed in the solar industry, culminating in the opportunity to submit their resumes and participate in employment interviews, via remote or in person, with recruiters from multiple Solar Industry companies nationwide that view veterans with a very positive light." Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeffrey Madlangbayan, who is scheduled to complete his Navy service in January, is currently enrolled in the program. Madlangbayan has completed the first two weeks of the training. "I learned the basics of electrical circuitry: D/C circuitry, current flow, voltage, how to calculate amps and resistance, and basic Ohms law," said Madlangbayan. "Today, we did estimates on sunlight and shade on a particular area. We learned about the solar panels and how they can connect to the power grid." Madlangbayan said there is quite a bit of reading material for homework and some hands-on learning throughout the class. "We'll do an experiment where all the parts are there," said Madlangbayan. "We'll have to set it up ourselves, or we troubleshoot an array. The instructors are certified electricians and technical engineers and have years of experience. Sometimes people will come in [to teach], and previous classes have Skyped with field experts." After students complete the course they are often linked up with jobs in the industry, however, the availability and locations of employment opportunities depend on where the solar industry is thriving, predominantly in the Southwest. Students may need to decide upon relocating in order to pursue job opportunities after completing the course. Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Thornton Ross, the career counselor for Air Department's V-0 Division, has sent two of his Sailors through the program. "One of our guys wasn't too excited about the locations that were offered, but they were excited about the certificate because it's a good stepping stone," said Rice. "The second guy thought it was all great. He started from knowing none of the technical knowledge and he worked his way up on everything." The course has been offered three times since May; currently 27 students from a variety of commands and service branches are enrolled. "I consider our first two courses very successful," said Rice. "Several of the students chose careers in the solar industry. The students that pursued other career opportunities were appreciative of the learning experience and expressed a desire to install solar at their residence in the future." The technical training this course offers is designed to prepare students for a growing industry. Under the leadership of President Obama, the Department of Energy is advocating for more resources within the renewable energy markets. "The program provides insight and training into an industry that is growing at an unbelievable rate and has employment opportunities well above the national average," said Rice. "The last information that I was provided indicated that there are up to 35,000 job openings in the solar industry." As this industry develops, and demand of alternative energies grows, Solar Ready Vets is a program that can truly benefit service members during their transition to civilian life and one great perk is it's all free of charge for the service members. "At present this course is free to the student," said Rice. "This includes text books, NABCEP exam expenses, OSHA training costs and all other course materials. The only things that are required of the students are a desire to learn and a commitment to excel. The intent in the near future is for the course to be supported by the GI Bill." For Sailors like Madlangbayan, the transition in the solar industry provides a golden opportunity as they depart the Navy. "It's a perfect opportunity in being able to catch one last class before leaving the military," said Madlangbayan. "For service members who aren't looking into this as a career, it's something they can at least have on their resume. The fact that I can obtain an easy job after I leave, just the fact that I have that chance, is enough for me to take it. It's an opportunity that can't be missed. It's free, and it's perfect timing for me, too. I didn't even find out about it until recently. I am really impressed by how consumers are getting into this industry. It's been growing almost exponentially." Solar Ready Vets is an opportunity for those interested in transitioning into a stable and technical career after the Navy or for those who have an interest in solar technology. Sailors must be within three months of leaving the Navy in order to be eligible and must apply for the program. Individuals can speak with their departmental career counselors or visit www.energy.gov/eere/sunshot/solar-ready-vets to find out more information.