B.R.I.D.G.E.
Introducing
Bridging Renewable Industry Divides In Gender Equality
Native American Women make up less than .05% of the solar workforce…
At Red Cloud Renewable, we want to change that…
The BRIDGE program, which stands for Bridging Renewable Industry Divides in Gender Equality, is a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower Native American women with the skills and certifications needed to excel in the renewable energy sector.
Hosted at the Red Cloud Renewable Energy Center in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, the program offers comprehensive solar energy training in partnership with Remote Energy. BRIDGE goes beyond technical education, incorporating cultural heritage, career readiness, and personal development to create a holistic learning experience.
Over a four-week intensive course, participants receive hands-on instruction in solar installation, interview preparation, resume building, and networking, all tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in their communities.
This initiative is part of Red Cloud Renewable’s broader mission to promote energy sovereignty and workforce development across Indian Country.
By addressing the underrepresentation of women in the solar industry, BRIDGE equips graduates with not only technical skills but also the confidence and support to pursue sustainable careers in renewable energy.
Grant funded by the DOE, the program has already proven its success, with the first cohort seeing 13 Native American women graduate as certified solar installers. With funding secured for additional cohorts, BRIDGE is committed to creating lasting change by empowering women to lead in the transition to clean energy, contributing both to their personal growth and to the resilience of their communities.
DATES FOR COHORT II
STUDENTS ARRIVE = SUNDAY, MAY 11TH 2025
FIRST DAY OF CLASS = MONDAY, MAY 12TH 2025 8:00AM MT
GRADUATION = FRIDAY, JUNE 6TH 4PM
[A TOTAL OF 4 WEEKS REQUIRED ON RED CLOUD RENEWABLE CAMPUS]
DATES FOR COHORT III
STUDENTS ARRIVE = SUNDAY, AUGUST 1OTH 2025
FIRST DAY OF CLASS = MONDAY, AUGUST 11TH 2025 8:00AM MT
GRADUATION = FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH 4PM
[A TOTAL OF 4 WEEKS REQUIRED ON RED CLOUD RENEWABLE CAMPUS]
Technical Course Description
The core technical curriculum spans a four-week period of intensive classroom and hands-on training, during which students will learn marketable job skills. There will be online course work to complete as a prerequisite before the in-person courses, including an OSHA 10-hour safety course. No prior experience is required to join this program. Classes will provide participants with an opportunity to practice using the tools of the trade and participate in hands-on exercises and ‘minilabs’ designed to develop and refine important worksite skills. Students will weave theoretical knowledge with practical application by practicing the installation of “mock PV systems” on campus before participating in an actual community-based installation.
Virtual Prerequisites:
RE 100 - Introduction to Renewable Energy
RE101 - Fundamental Math for Solar Applications
CPR/First Aid
OSHA 10 Construction Safety
In Person Courses
Week 1 & 2 - Solar Fundamentals with Applied Workforce Training: Learn how a solar electric system works and how to install it. This course combines classroom discussions with hands-on labs using tools, wiring electrical equipment, system design software, and implementing safe work practices.
Week 3 - Installation Skill Building: Students will install multiple different live solar electric grid-direct systems at the RedCloud Renewable Energy Center. For each rotation, students will complete a job hazard analysis, and then install, test, and commission the PV system.
Week 4 - Specialized Solar Training & Install a residential system in the community: The final week culminates with students conducting a residential PV site assessment on Pine Ridge Reservation. Participants will then design the mechanical and electrical layout of the system, develop a parts list, discuss permitting and regulations, and install the system with their instructors and classmates. Additional coursework on energy storage systems will be incorporated into this final week.
Upon completing all four weeks, students will be given a set of solar technician tools and be supported and provided opportunities for job interviews with the goal of employment in the solar industry
To apply for this program please click the button below:
Support the BRIDGE program and help empower Native American women to become leaders in renewable energy by providing them with life-changing solar training and career opportunities. Your donation directly impacts the lives of these women and their communities, paving the way for a sustainable and energy-independent future.