Blog
A Solar Start to a Union Trades Career
Every union carpenter has their own story of how they entered the trades. Whether they started their apprenticeship right after high school, were following a union legacy, or just wanted to work with their hands, their different paths have led them to the same livable wages, better benefits, and a secure future.
As the industry adapts to new construction needs, renewable energy has emerged as a prominent gateway to the union trades. From solar panel installations to massive wind farm construction, green energy projects are not only reshaping the grid, but also creating high-demand and well-paying jobs for the next generation of skilled workers.
Wisconsin-based signatory contractor, The Boldt Company, brings technical expertise and logistical planning know-how to deliver renewable energy in response to growing demand. The contractor is not new to renewable energy construction and has led wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, bioenergy, and solar projects across the U.S. As a market leader, Boldt values developing new tradespeople and building a skilled workforce that they can work with from job to job.
The Apple River Solar Project in Wisconsin is one example of Boldt’s commitment to providing trade pathways through renewable energy. Developed by National Grid Renewables, this 100-megawatt photovoltaic solar facility is located in Polk County and will be connected to the electric grid via the Apple River 161kv Substation.
“Boldt is proud to have been selected by National Grid Renewables for this power facility which provides renewable energy to the power grid in northwest Wisconsin. The expertise and dedication of our trades women and men in the support and development of our apprentices, is critical to the success of this project,” says Jason Fields, Boldt’s executive responsible for building this facility.
More than 20 new apprentices entered the Carpenters Union through this project alone. Brought in through traditional recruitment channels and partnering with local community organizations, these new tradespeople have started their paths to a career in union construction. When work is done at Apple River, many of the new apprentices look forward to continuing their work on renewable and other energy projects across the region.
“The Carpenters Union has provided the training and support I needed to gain experience in building solar farms. In particular, they have taught me the critical tasks for installing the racking and module systems which are the structural backbone of the plants. This experience has given me the confidence to grow my career in the solar field, and I am looking forward to supporting Boldt on its next project,” says Jacob Jones of Local1074.
“The Apple River Solar Project has been an amazing pathway into the union for me. This has given me the opportunity to learn and grow not only as a Carpenter but an individual. When I started, I was very shy, because of the amazing crew onsite, they helped me feel more confident talking and asking questions,” says Sara Pelzel of Local 1074.
The Apple River Solar Project is anticipated to generate over $36 million in direct economic impact during its first 20 years of operation, including an estimated $10 million in new tax revenue for Polk County and local townships. Additionally, National Grid Renewables has pledged $500,000 in charitable funding through the project, with funds distributed to the Amery and Clayton school districts to support educational initiatives.
Once operational, the Apple River Solar Project is expected to supply power to Xcel Energy, serving customers across the Upper Midwest. At capacity, the facility will generate enough clean, renewable energy to meet the equivalent electrical usage of approximately 26,000 homes annually, contributing to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and supporting regional sustainability goals.
Originally Written By North County Carpenter
About The Boldt Company
The Boldt Company (Boldt) is a leading professional construction services firm with customers across the United States and is a subsidiary of The Boldt Group. Founded in 1889, Boldt is a fourth-generation family and employee-owned firm headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin. Boldt is recognized as a pioneer in Lean construction and in the industrialized construction space. Boldt operates 18 offices across the U.S. that serve customers in healthcare, power, industrial, education, automotive and commercial markets.
