Madison Reporter

STEM educators from across the country gathered at Madison College this summer to enhance their skills in solar energy systems and secure grants for classroom solar equipment.

Madison College, in collaboration with the CREATE Energy Center, hosted 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 educators eager to integrate energy storage with solar power into their curricula, aiming to inspire students toward careers in renewable energy technology.

Participants at the STEM Educator Solar Institute learned about solar panel functionality and installed a complete photovoltaic system at Madison College's state-of-the-art outdoor solar lab on Commercial Avenue. The hands-on training was praised by attendees. “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."

At the Solar Plus Storage Institute, educators built a lithium-ion battery pack using a mobile solar training lab provided by Illumination Solar. This approach aims to ensure 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," said Madison College Physical Sciences Instructor Elizabeth Reinke.

Participants who completed the training received a $1,200 classroom equipment award and a $600 stipend. The educators took home nearly $45,000 worth of industry-standard equipment for classroom use, funded by the National Science Foundation. These resources will help expose thousands of students to renewable energy technology and related careers.

Madison College stands out as Wisconsin's only higher education institution offering such teacher trainings. The Commercial Avenue campus serves as the base for construction and remodeling programs and earn-while-you-learn apprenticeship opportunities.

For more information about renewable energy education and future events, visit the CREATE Energy Center website at https://createenergy.org/.