A Struggle for Direction
Just a year ago, Jacinta Goggles from Ethete, Wyoming, found herself stuck in an unfulfilling, low-paying job with little sense of purpose. At 28, she struggled to see a clear path for her future and felt as though she was not making a meaningful impact. Reflecting on her past, she admitted that her work did not bring her a sense of productivity or fulfillment. However, an opportunity to participate in a Solar job Training Program would soon change the course of her life.
A Life-Changing Opportunity
Goggles enrolled in a fully funded solar job training program specifically designed for Native American women. The initiative, led by the nonprofit Red Cloud Renewable in South Dakota, provided an intensive five-week learning experience. Alongside a group of Native women, she gained in-depth knowledge of solar energy and received hands-on instruction in solar panel installation. The training culminated in a practical project where the participants installed a solar energy system for a tribal member. This hands-on experience was a pivotal moment for Goggles, reinforcing her confidence in her ability to contribute to the renewable energy sector. She expressed excitement in seeing her hard work translate into tangible results within a short period.
A New Career with a Purpose
Today, Goggles is working with Energize Wind River, an organization dedicated to expanding solar energy access on the Wind River Reservation. Her new career as a solar installer has not only provided her with financial stability but has also given her a renewed sense of purpose. She acknowledges that without, Solar job training program, she would likely still be stuck in a cycle of low-wage jobs, struggling to make ends meet. Now, she is proud to play a role in her community’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how access to specialized training can open doors to new opportunities and create lasting change in underserved communities.
