George Brown College launches new programs to build green workforce

In March 2025, the Minister of Jobs and Families, Steven MacKinnon, announced $67 million for 10 projects to train nearly 29 300 tradespeople with high-demand skills for low-carbon industries as industries shift to greener, low-carbon alternatives through 2030.

To attract and prepare the next generation of skilled trades professionals, it will require more than recruitment and funding. It will also require modernizing how we train and providing accessible education to remove barriers for adult learners.

To help fill this gap, George Brown College, a global leader in distance learning, is expanding its clean technology training with the launch of two new online certificate programs in the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry. As solar energy is expected to generate 50 per cent of the world’s electricity by 2050, these programs will help meet the growing demand for skilled workers in this sector.

“With Canada facing a skilled trades gap of more than 85,000 workers by 2033, it’s crucial to create accessible pathways into high-demand industries like solar energy,” said Colin Simpson, dean of the Centre for Continuous Learning at George Brown College. “Our new Solar Energy Technician and Solar Panel Installer certificate programs provide flexible, self-paced online learning, removing barriers to entry and making it easier for students and working professionals to transition into this growing field. Building on our existing cleantech certificate programs, we saw an opportunity to equip a skilled workforce for Canada’s growing solar PV sector and beyond.”

As both programs are delivered online and asynchronous, students can learn at their own pace based on their schedules. Additionally, once enrolled, students have lifetime access to all materials so they can refresh their learning as needed. The programs are supported seven days a week by tutorial and technical staff. Once completed, students will be equipped with the skills necessary for working confidently in the solar PV industry at all levels. One of the main features of the program is its state-of-the-art interactive solar PV simulation software, a feature also found in other online certificate programs at George Brown College, each offering a state-of-the-art simulation technology tailored to their respective fields.

The Solar PV programs offer two pathways for students entering the industry. The Solar Panel Installer (SI) program is ideal for those seeking an entry point into the industry. Over seven modules, students gain hands-on skills in sizing and installing solar PV systems, preparing them for jobs in solar equipment installation. For a more comprehensive education, the Solar Energy Technician (ST) program includes five additional modules, covering system design, maintenance and commissioning. ST graduates will be equipped to install and design solar PV systems, submit permits and work on both residential and commercial projects.

The proprietary 3DLab and CircuitLogix Simulation Software enables students to successfully complete laboratory projects and gain a better understanding of the electrical and electronic systems used in solar PV systems.

Key features of the Solar PV Simulation Software

Real-Time Visualization: Users can observe solar PV system performance under varying conditions and irradiation levels.
Interactive Operation: Users can set varying levels of irradiation, as well as plot a 12-hour solar cycle to be used to test solar PV system behaviour.
Pre-Built Lab Projects: Includes pre-built lab projects/labs presented using the CircuitLogix simulation tool to provide a rich resource for practical learning and experimentation.
Off-grid and Grid-Tied Applications: Solar PV equipment used in grid-tied and off grid systems are examined such as Inverters, hybrid inverters, charge controllers, solar panels, automatic transfer switches.

George Brown College is also offering a micro-credential program called Construction Health & Safety as an optional add-on for students enrolled in the ST or SI program. It has the same curriculum criteria, elective and optional topics and timeline as the 10-hour OSHA outreach training. This micro-credential safety course is highly regarded in the solar industry and will distinguish graduates as a valued asset and professional.

George Brown College’s other distance learning technician programs include: