Solar Tech CalSEIA Summit Welcomes Boots on the Roof Solar Training Program

Fremont, CA, August 17, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger joined solar industry leaders as they teamed up with the California Solar Energy Industries Association at eBay's corporate offices in San Jose, CA, for the inaugural Solar Tech CalSEIA Summit. The welcome mat went out to accomplished renewable energy educator, Boots on the Roof, as business professionals gathered to gain insights into the big picture for the solar industry.

The eBay grounds were a fitting venue for hosting this event, given that it is well known for also hosting the city's largest commercial solar installation. In his inauguration note, Governor Schwarzenegger stated that renewable energy is a key component of the financial recovery strategy for his state and the nation. The fact that Silicon-Valley is striving to become a leader in this arena speaks volumes for the growing future of solar energy in California and the nation. At the event, silicon-Valley based Boots on the Roof was given the task of spearheading the movement to work closely with industry organizations to accelerate the implementation of solar energy systems through education.

Sue Kateley, Executive Director of CalSEIA, commented on the value of having Boots on the Roof as part of the summit, "We wanted Boots on the Roof at the Solar Tech CalSEIA Summit in recognition of the their successful Solar program which teaches business owners the skill sets needed to establish a foot hold in the growing solar market. While there are a growing number of programs to train new employees, Boots on the Roof's approach will help grow the number of employers."

Boots on the Roof has been recognized by certification-based and degree-based educational programs in various renewable energy tracks. Boots' most popular solar program is already accredited by ISPQ, and other programs are in the accreditation process. It's presence at the Summit's Workforce sessions, along with educators from Community Colleges and non-profit training groups, was also a great opportunity for business community leaders to learn more about renewable energy training.

Steve Watkins, Director, Partner and Academic Relations, Boots on the Roof, had this to add, "It has been a common reaction in education to focus only on training solar equipment installers which, though important, leaves the solar industry hurting for qualified people in sales and business roles. I was glad to hear again and again from CEOs that they want employees trained in the big-picture, whole-systems view of solar, since that is exactly the type of training we've charted out for licensed contractors and business professionals moving into solar."

About Boots on the Roof:
Boots on the Roof, a reputed solar training school, delivers top-quality market-ready Solar training programs for renewable energy industry professionals. The Boots team has a 16-year track record of successfully partnering with large organizations to train tens of thousands of students nationwide. For press enquiries, contact Navraj Bawa, Executive Vice President, (510) 249-1060, 4670 Auto Mall Parkway, Fremont, CA 94538.

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