Updated June 2025
The solar industry offers a collaborative and purpose-driven environment that resonates with military service members and veterans looking to rise to their next challenge. According to IREC’s National Solar Jobs Census, veterans comprise about 8% of the solar workforce (compared to 5% of the overall U.S. economy). However, to fully tap into and invest in this exceptional talent, the solar industry must intentionally cultivate a culture, along with policies and processes, to demonstrate that it values the unique assets military talent offers.
This guide is intended to support solar employers with resources, strategies, and best practices to recruit, hire, and retain veteran talent across all levels and sectors of the solar workforce.
Beginning with the value proposition for investing in military talent, the toolkit also explores the process of attracting and hiring veterans, best practices for successful onboarding, and retention strategies.