Peter Schorsch
A few years ago, Adrian Hernandez was scooping ice cream for a living, uncertain about his future. Today, he is a senior field applications engineer in Florida’s fast-growing solar industry.
His journey — from feeling lost and uncertain of his future to a career in renewable energy — began at Erwin Technical College, a Hillsborough County-based institution training workers to meet the state’s surging demand for skilled solar professionals.
Hernandez’s turning point came by chance discovery. One day, he stumbled across an article about solar energy and its potential for job growth. The idea stuck with him. With no prior experience in the field, he enrolled in Erwin Tech’s Solar Photovoltaic Design, Installation & Maintenance Program, a 600-hour course designed to provide students with hands-on training in solar installation, troubleshooting, and electrical systems.
What he found was more than just a classroom.
“We weren’t just learning from a book,” Hernandez said. “We were installing real solar panels, wiring systems, and working on projects like we were already on the job.”
At the heart of the program is Sigurd Brocks, a veteran instructor who has guided countless students through the program.
“Mr. Brocks was more than just a teacher — he helped me turn my life around. I don’t think I’d be where I am today without this program,” Hernandez said.
Brocks emphasizes the importance of preparing students for life and careers beyond the classroom.
“At Erwin Tech, we make sure our students don’t just study solar; they install it, troubleshoot it, and work with real systems,” Brocks said. “We put tools in our students’ hands and give them the practical experience they need to succeed from Day 1. The solar industry is growing rapidly, and our graduates are stepping into jobs where they can make an immediate impact.”
That real-world experience paid off for Hernandez. Balancing a day job while attending night classes, he earned his Associate and Professional Certifications — credentials that would help him secure his first industry job. He started as a technician, then worked his way up to project management. Today, he helps design and implement solar solutions as a senior field applications engineer.
Hernandez’s story is one of many to come out of Erwin Tech’s solar program. In the 12 years since its inception, the program has trained over 150 students, many of whom have gone on to careers in installation, system design, and project management.
As the demand for renewable energy grows, so does the need for skilled workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for solar photovoltaic installers are projected to increase significantly in the coming years.
Employers are taking note. Graduates of Erwin Tech’s program are finding themselves in high demand, stepping into careers that offer stability and growth potential.
For Hernandez, the shift from ice cream scoops to solar panels has been transformative.
“The solar industry is always changing,” Hernandez said. “But if you’re willing to learn and adapt, there are endless opportunities.”
With Florida’s solar sector expanding rapidly, Erwin Tech is ensuring those opportunities don’t go unfilled.
