Aaron’s Story – How Exposure to Solar While Traveling and an Installation Training Launched a Career

Join us in celebrating Aaron Nichols, whose inspiring journey from educator to solar industry advocate has been chosen for HeatSpring’s Stay Curious campaign.

This initiative highlights the transformative power of education in the clean energy sector, showcasing individuals whose learning paths have not only shaped their careers but also created positive impacts in their industries and communities. By sharing these stories, HeatSpring gives a nod to the crucial role of lifelong learning and curiosity in driving the transition to a more sustainable and resilient future.

Aaron’s path is a great example of how unexpected turns can lead to meaningful opportunities when guided by purpose and continuous learning. He began his career as a trained educator with plans to teach internationally, starting with the Peace Corps in Nepal. When the COVID pandemic cut this experience short, Aaron embarked on a period of deep personal reflection that ultimately led him to discover his passion for renewable energy. 

His journey demonstrates how combining job training programs with hands-on experience and recognized credentials can open doors in a new industry. A six-week solar installer course earning him a NABCEP PV Associate credential became the pivotal educational experience that launched his career in solar energy. Today, Aaron serves as the Marketing and Advocacy Specialist at Exact Solar in Pennsylvania, where his work contributes directly to advancing renewable energy adoption.

Let’s hear from Aaron about his pathway into the solar industry!