The Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, today recognised nine Bermudians who completed the 2026 Solar Photovoltaic Certification Programme during a celebration held at Bermuda College.
The event brought together the graduates, their families and supporters, Government officials, programme facilitators and industry representatives to recognise the participants’ achievement of internationally recognised qualifications in solar photovoltaic technology.
The six-week programme combined comprehensive classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training in photovoltaic technology, electrical systems, installation practices, safety standards and industry best practices.
The participants earned the Photovoltaic Installer Level 1 (PVIL1) qualification from Vector Technology Institute.
Addressing those gathered, Minister Hayward said the graduates’ accomplishments would strengthen Bermuda’s skilled workforce and help prepare the Island for continued growth in renewable energy.
Minister Hayward stated: “For a small island jurisdiction such as ours, the transition to cleaner energy carries particular importance.
“Solar photovoltaic technology offers an important opportunity to make greater use of the natural resources available to us, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and support a cleaner and more sustainable future.
“However, technology alone cannot deliver that future. We must also have Bermudians with the knowledge, qualifications and practical competence to install, maintain and support these systems safely and effectively.”
The Solar Photovoltaic Certification Programme supports the Government’s sustainable development objectives by equipping Bermudians with the expertise and internationally recognised qualifications required to participate in the Island’s expanding renewable energy sector.
The initiative aligns with the Government’s Economic Development Strategy and its focus on developing a resilient economy supported by innovation, sustainability and local talent.
It also supports the Government’s work to promote Bermuda’s emerging blue and green economy.
The curriculum was coordinated through the Department of Workforce Development as part of its continued investment in training that provides Bermudians with opportunities for lifelong learning, professional advancement and participation in emerging industries.
It also advances the objectives of the National Occupational Certification Programme, which seeks to ensure that Bermudians working in skilled trades possess qualifications that meet recognised industry standards.
National occupational certification strengthens workforce competency, increases public confidence in the skilled trades, promotes industry collaboration and supports employment opportunities in occupations that are increasingly in demand locally and internationally.
The initiative was delivered by an international team of industry professionals comprising Mr Joseph Weeks, Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) Certification Administrator; Dr Wayde Marr, Photovoltaic Lecturer with the Vector Technology Institute; and Mr Michael Wells, ETA Certification Administrator.
Their combined expertise and practical experience provided participants with instruction aligned with international standards.
Minister Hayward thanked the facilitators, the Department of Workforce Development, Bermuda College and the programme’s industry partners for supporting the successful delivery of the training.
He also recognised the achievement of one participant, Matthew Mitchell, who entered the programme as a registered electrical apprentice. Mr Mitchell demonstrated a level of dedication, technical competence and enthusiasm beyond that normally expected at his stage of development.
Programme facilitators consequently granted special permission for him to participate alongside experienced Nationally Certified Electricians.
Minister Hayward said: “Matthew’s success is a powerful reflection of the quality of Bermuda’s apprenticeship system and the tremendous potential of our future trades professionals.
“To that participant, and to every young person considering a career in the trades, this achievement shows what can be accomplished through preparation, discipline and a willingness to learn.”
All nine programme participants are currently employed, allowing the knowledge and competencies developed during the training to be applied immediately within Bermuda’s workforce.
