Search | Menu STEM educators uplevel skills at summer solar institutes
STEM educators from across the country came to Madison College this summer to acquire valuable skills in solar energy systems and secure grant money to purchase solar equipment for their classrooms.
Madison College collaborated with the CREATE Energy Center to host two events: the STEM Educator Solar Institute from July 9-11, and the STEM Educator Solar Plus Storage Institute from July 23-25.
The events attracted 46 STEM educators eager to learn how to integrate energy storage with solar power, so they could return to their classrooms and inspire students to pursue careers in renewable energy technology.
Hands-on experience at Commercial Avenue campus
Participants praised the hands-on training, expert instructors, and extensive curriculum. “The instructors were very enthusiastic and approachable," said participant Theresa Paulsen. "The curricular materials are very impressive and ready for use with students. My students will love the hands-on lessons that get them outside and I will love watching their interest and understanding of renewable energy production grow."
During the STEM Educator Solar Institute, participants learned about solar panel functionality and installed a complete photovoltaic system at Madison College's state-of-the-art outdoor solar lab.
Partnership with CREATE Energy Center
At the Solar Plus Storage Institute, educators acquired valuable skills by building a lithium-ion battery pack using a mobile solar training lab provided by Illumination Solar. This approach ensures that high-quality solar training reaches remote or underserved areas, promoting educational equity.
What really sets these Institutes apart from other trainings is the stipend and equipment award, along with the Madison College Commercial Avenue outdoor solar lab, says Madison College Physical Sciences Instructor Elizabeth Reinke.
Participants who successfully completed the on-hand trainings are eligible for a $1,200 classroom equipment award and a $600 stipend. The STEM Educators took home almost $45,000 of industry-standard equipment for use in their classrooms, funded by the National Science Foundation. These STEM educators will now expose thousands of students to renewable energy technology and careers.
Stand out program
Madison College is the only Wisconsin higher education institute that offers these teacher trainings. Madison College Commercial Avenue campus, which hosted the events, is the home base for construction and remodeling programs and earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship opportunities.
For more information about renewable energy education and future events, please visit the CREATE Energy Center website at https://createenergy.org/.
