Opportunities

  • Ongoing Information Sessions: “First Wednesdays”
    • Location: REF Classroom at HIRE360 located at 2540 S. State St. 
    • Time: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm. 
    • When: We will meet on the 1st Wednesday of every month. 
    • What: Open format informational sessions to discuss upcoming IL IBEW REF programs and IBEW Opportunities. Anyone seeking detailed information is welcome to attend. The meetup will be structured as an informational session with question & answer. REF past participants are always welcome to drop in and share their stories with new participants or catch up with REF friends. We will begin promptly at 5:00 pm and end at 6:00 pm. Please plan accordingly and arrive 10-15 minutes early to find parking and the classroom. 
  • Community Colleges: Credited
      • Spring 2026 Credited Courses
        • Registration is open.
        • Triton College
          • The IL IBEW Renewable Energy Fund facilitates daytime courses that may lead to a Certificate and/or associate’s degree in Renewable Energy Technology. Scholarships may be available.
          • Visit Triton Colleges Renewable Energy Technology Certificate for Course Information and Registration. Schedule a time to meet with an academic advisor to register for the program and receive guidance on courses/schedule required for programs.
          • REF 2025 Spring Community College Courses: Registration will open this winter. Check back for updates
  • Community Colleges: Non Credit
      • Spring 2026 Non-Credit Courses
            • Registration is open. All registrations are handled by the individual schools. Please direct registration classes to their admissions and registration offices if you have any issues registering. 
            • Spring 2026: Monday and Wednesday Evenings 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. April 6th – May 6th 2026.
              • City Colleges of Chicago
                • Arturo Velasquez Westside Technical Institute:  
                  • Visit the Registration Page
                  • Search “Photovoltaics” or Enter course code 67702 for “Basic Solar (PV) Photovoltaic Systems”
                • Wilbur Wright College (Humbolt Park Campus): 
                  • Visit the Registration Page.
                  • Search “Photovoltaics” or Enter course code 66364 for “Photovoltaic System Fundamentals with IBEW”
              • Moraine Valley Community College:
                  • Visit the Registration Page. Or call 708.974.2110
                  • Search for Course via Course Code Number: MP5-460-200
                  • Select Course “MP5-460-200 Solar Workforce Development”.
      • Harper College: Short Form Classes
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