Equipping the future solar workforce, the Florida Solar Apprenticeship Program combines real-world training with technical expertise, guiding apprentices toward state certification as Florida solar contractors. With eight participating employers and 20 apprentices, the program ensures that Florida continues to produce highly skilled solar energy technicians.

One of these apprentices is Darius Lauture, a 24-year-old Commercial Solar Foreman at 15 lightyears, a participating employer in the Florida Solar Apprenticeship Program. Pictured: Darius Lauture, 15 lightyears

Originally from Hawaii, Darius moved to Florida at 18, searching for new opportunities. After working in restaurants, he knew he wanted more - a career where he could grow, apply himself, and develop a valuable trade. In June 2021, he joined 15 lightyears and after a few years, the Florida Solar Apprenticeship Program with no prior experience in solar or construction. Over the next two years, he learned everything from solar installation techniques to system design, combining online coursework with hands-on training.

Now, as a foreman leading a crew at 15 lightyears, Darius ensures installations are done properly and efficiently. He enjoys the physical and leadership aspects of the job, saying office work was never for him. "Coming into this, I didn’t have much hands-on experience, but I knew I wasn’t meant for a desk job. This program taught me the skills I needed, and now I get to lead a team doing work I love,” says Darius. Pictured: Darius Lauture, 15 lightyears

Darius found the program’s structure flexible, allowing him to balance work and coursework without added stress. "I could study at home and apply what I learned the next day at work. It made everything click," says Darius. His goal for the next five years? To become a field project manager and dive deeper into the technical side of solar installations.

His advice for anyone considering the program? "100% go for it. It’s in demand. Even if you start somewhere small, build your knowledge, you can go anywhere."

About 15 lightyears & The Florida Solar Apprenticeship Program

Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, 15 lightyears is an energy performance and testing contractor serving residential, multifamily, and commercial projects throughout the state. As a participating employer in the Florida Solar Apprenticeship Program, 15 lightyears is dedicated to training the next generation of solar professionals. By providing apprentices like Darius with on-the-job training and technical instruction, they are not only supporting workforce development but also ensuring that Florida’s solar industry continues to thrive.

Interested in joining the Florida Solar Apprenticeship Program as an apprentice or employer? Learn more at https://floridasolarapprentice.com/ or email ckettles@fsec.ucf.edu