Last month, SEIA had the opportunity to host two student groups visiting DC that were interested in learning more about solar technology and policy.

The first group, from Eagle Nest Elementary in Orlando, Fla., was comprised of more than fifty 5th grade students and teachers who were in D.C. for a field trip. SEIA staff, including Khephren Menna and Claire August taught them about sustainable solar and tested them on what they had learned at the end of the session.

As part of a highly competitive pop quiz, students who answered questions correctly, won solar kits to build racecars, robots and more that they could take home and assemble.

Our second group of visitors came from the Arizona State University's graduate program. ASU's Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in Solar Energy Engineering and Commercialization (SEEC) enables students to get an understanding of solar energy technology and engineering as well as business, policy and nontechnical aspects of the field, preparing them to be successful in solar development and commercialization.

It is a relatively new type of graduate program designed to be completed in 12 months for students interested in graduate studies, but not necessarily interested in a doctoral degree or an MBA.

Brandon Audap, SEIA's Director of Federal Affairs, and Dana Sleeper, Director of External Affairs (that’s me), discussed recent solar policy campaigns with the students and fielded questions relevant to their graduate projects, which must be completed in partnership with a company, association or other entity engaged in the solar industry.

As a trade association, part of SEIA’s mission is to educate folks about solar, not just its benefits for the economy and environment but also how they can become actively involved in the industry’s future.

If you are interested in visiting SEIA's offices for a Solar 101 session, university or graduate student discussion, or other education opportunities, please contact me at [email protected].