Colorado's Renewable Energy pathway prepares students for careers in solar, wind, geothermal, and energy efficiency industries—sectors aligned with Colorado's environmental priorities and growing energy sector. Colorado's abundant solar resources and wind potential create exceptional opportunities in clean energy.
Students develop expertise in renewable energy systems, installation techniques, maintenance procedures, electrical integration, and energy efficiency. They gain hands-on experience through partnerships with solar and wind companies, building systems contractors, and utilities.
Graduates work as solar technicians, wind turbine technicians, energy auditors, or installation specialists. Many pursue advanced certifications and training. Colorado's expanding clean energy sector and state renewable portfolio standards ensure strong, growing employment throughout the state.
Renewable Energy at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Colorado's renewable energy standards align with industry best practices, NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) standards, and state energy efficiency requirements. Standards cover multiple renewable technologies and safety practices.
Students complete hands-on competency assessments in system design, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Assessment includes industry certifications and safety credentials required for renewable energy work.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Renewable Energy Fundamentals |
| Solar Photovoltaic Systems |
| Wind Energy and Advanced Systems |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
- ✓Certified Horticulture Professional
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Solar Installation Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $47,930 - $55,770
Renewable Energy Technician
ExperiencedSalary range: $97,770 - $151,840
Wind Technician
ExperiencedSalary range: $61,210 - $76,070
Energy Systems Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $97,770 - $151,840
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern with solar companies, wind farms, energy utilities, energy efficiency contractors, and manufacturers throughout Colorado.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Colorado Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Colorado
Energy Extraction & Distribution
Colorado's Energy Extraction & Distribution pathway prepares students for careers in oil and gas operations, utilities, and energy infrastructure. Colorado's energy industry and natural gas operations create stable employment opportunities. Students develop expertise in safety procedures, equipment operation, system maintenance, drilling operations, and utility systems. They gain practical knowledge through partnerships with energy companies and utilities. Graduates work as equipment operators, maintenance technicians, or system technicians with energy companies, utilities, or drilling contractors. Strong demand and competitive wages ensure good career prospects.
Agriculture, Natural Resources & EnergyEngineering
Colorado's Engineering pathway develops foundational knowledge and skills for careers in engineering disciplines and technical fields. Colorado's aerospace, manufacturing, and technology industries create strong demand for engineering professionals and technicians. Students develop competency in engineering design, CAD software, physics and mathematics applications, problem-solving, and project management. They work on real engineering projects and gain experience through partnerships with engineering firms and manufacturers. Graduates pursue careers as engineering technicians, CAD technicians, or continue studies in engineering at Colorado universities including CU Boulder, Colorado State, and University of Colorado Denver. Many work with aerospace contractors, manufacturing companies, and technology firms throughout the state.
STEM, Arts, Design & Information TechnologyEnvironmental Services Systems
Colorado's Environmental Services Systems pathway prepares students for careers in environmental remediation, waste management, and environmental compliance. Colorado's environmental regulations and growing green economy create opportunities. Students develop competency in environmental assessment, remediation techniques, waste management, environmental compliance, and sustainability practices. They gain hands-on experience through environmental projects and partnerships. Graduates work as environmental technicians, compliance specialists, or sustainability coordinators. Many pursue advanced environmental science education or certifications. Growing environmental consciousness ensures good career prospects.
Agriculture, Natural Resources & EnergyReady to Build Renewable Energy Programs at Scale?
See how Sage can help you create standards-aligned curriculum for Renewable Energy in Colorado.