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UNM-Gallup solar technician students Travis Kaskalla, left, and Terrence Stewart prepare the solar panel assembly at a home in Zuni on Aug. 22, 2025.

UNM-Gallup solar technician course offers bright future

Categories: Students   Faculty   Staff   Community  

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New 12-week training program prepares students to empower themselves, give back to community

By Renaldo Fowler, Friday, Sept. 12, 2025

ZUNI, N.M. — Five students from �鶹��Ƶ-Gallup's new solar technician program gathered with their instructors on a sunny day in late August to determine the best placement to install solar panels on a couple’s home.

After completing the 12-week course at UNM-Gallup and passing their certification exams, these students were now prepared to apply their knowledge with hands-on experience in the field.

He was part of the first cohort for the solar technician program, which is offered through Workforce Development & Community Education at UNM-Gallup. The solar tech program was introduced in May, and instruction began in early June.

"A productive member in my household"

Kaskalla signed up for the solar technician course after recently returning home to Zuni, where he also provides care for his father.

"I'm using this program to get back on my feet," he said. "I want to be a productive member in my household."

Kaskalla was previously living in Albuquerque, but he moved back home to Zuni after having some troubles in his life. He recalled seeing a flyer promoting the solar technician program on Facebook on a Wednesday. He then started the program the following Monday.

Kaskalla said he believes the solar program is important because it provides people with an opportunity to get their certification in just 12 weeks.

Having completed the course, Kaskalla’s personal goal is to become an instructor for the solar tech program. He plans to shadow his current instructor to get more experience and further his career path.

"A lot of stress and worry off my mind"

Trujillo and Calavaza were chosen to receive solar panels on their home because of their high need for electricity.

Calavaza has diabetes and previously didn’t have a way to properly store his insulin supply.

Refrigeration will help the couple to preserve food longer and reduce waste in their household.

In addition, the solar panels will support the couple’s creative work. Calavaza is a silversmith, and Trujillo does knit work. Solar panels will help Calavaza to power his tools and provide light in his workshop.

"And I think that will be good, not just economically, but good for his spirit too," Trujillo said.

"Get a head start in the world"

Terence Stewart, 19, from Window Rock, Arizona, was another of the five students who helped install solar panels on the Zuni couple’s home on Aug. 22, 2025.

Stewart signed up for the solar technician program after his mother recommended it. Stewart is a recent high school graduate, and he saw it as an opportunity to "get a head start in the world."

Stewart said he faced challenges while preparing for the test, but he passed successfully.

Now, Stewart hopes to find an entry-level solar technician job. He said his instructors have been helpful in answering questions and looking for job placement.

Building the workforce

UNM-Gallup's solar technician program teaches students the basics of solar components and electricity, compliance, and safety hazards. Students also receive professional development training. Topics include learning the basics of running a small business, financial literacy, and customer service.

At the end of the course, students get hands-on training by setting up solar units within the community. The first cohort installed panels on homes in Zuni and Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Course instruction is provided by Purpose Focused Alternative Learning. Purpose Focused is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Lupton, Arizona. The organization is dedicated to empowering Native American communities by providing access to independent solar energy solutions.

Community Education & Workforce Development Director Ashlee Velasquez brought the course to UNM-Gallup because she is determined to build a workforce for future solar opportunities within the community.

"We will have a local workforce to help support and sustain incoming projects from employers," she said. "I’m glad that our campus is going to start venturing into offering renewable certifications for our community."

Looking ahead, Velasquez hopes to offer more vocational trade courses through her program. She is working on introducing courses for heavy equipment operating, HVAC, plumbing, pharmacy technician, fiber optics, and medical assistants.

To learn more about the solar technician course and other courses offered through Community Education & Workforce Development, visit

From left: UNM-Gallup solar technician students Travis Kaskalla, Leonard Ross, and Terrence Stewart work together on a solar panel at a home in Zuni on Aug. 22, 2025.