One of the challenges I hear most often from manufacturers is finding skilled maintenance technicians. As automation and advanced technologies become more common on the shop floor, the need for employees who can troubleshoot equipment, understand controls systems, and keep production running has continued to grow.
During a recent visit to First Solar's Perrysburg campus, I had the opportunity to see firsthand how the company is addressing that challenge. Rather than relying solely on external hiring for talent, First Solar is investing in the people already working there and creating a pathway for employees to build the skills needed to move into more technical roles.
Working with Custom Training Solutions (CTS) and Manufacturing Works, Arizona-headquartered First Solar, the largest solar manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere and the only American company among the world’s largest solar manufacturers, has developed a structured earn-and-learn program that gives production employees access to advanced technical training while continuing to work and earn a paycheck. The result is a win for employees, a win for the company, and a great example of how manufacturers can build talent from within.
Creating Opportunity from Within
Like many manufacturers, First Solar needs highly skilled maintenance technicians to support complex equipment, automation systems, and continuous improvement efforts. Rather than relying solely on external hiring, the company has created opportunities for employees already on the production floor to prepare for those positions.
Employees who demonstrate interest and potential can participate in a structured training program designed to help them build the skills required for maintenance and engineering technician careers. Participants continue working in their current roles while attending training, creating a practical pathway for career advancement without leaving the workforce.
What stood out to me was that this isn't a single class or short-term training initiative. It's a clearly defined pathway that helps employees develop the competencies needed for increasingly technical roles throughout the facility.
Training Built for Modern Manufacturing
It's immediately apparent that workforce development is a priority at First Solar.
The company has invested in dedicated training spaces designed specifically for hands-on learning. One of the most impressive features is a production training line established for CTS participants, allowing employees to gain experience in an environment that closely mirrors real-world manufacturing operations.
Employees also have access to a technical classroom and lab where they develop skills in machine repair, motors and controls, electrical systems, pneumatics, PLCs, FANUC automation, and continuous improvement. The curriculum includes courses in AC/DC Electricity, Machine Repair, Pneumatics, Motors and Controls, FANUC Operations, and Machine Shop Fundamentals.
Participants progress through the program while earning points that support advancement opportunities within the company. The approach creates a clear connection between skill development, career progression, and increased responsibility.
The Value of a Strong Partner
High-quality training requires more than curriculum. It requires instructors who understand manufacturing environments and can connect technical concepts to real-world applications.
That's where CTS has been a valuable partner.
Instructor Edwin Reinhart brings experience in quality, engineering, maintenance, and supervision and has worked with manufacturers throughout the region. During our visit, he spoke about the importance of structured training and mentoring, something he believes is often missing in manufacturing environments. His perspective reinforced something we hear frequently from employers: people want to grow, but they need a clear pathway and support system to get there.
CTS's ability to deliver customized, on-site training that accommodates multiple crews and production schedules has helped First Solar create a program that works for both employees and operations.
One of the things Manufacturing Works does best is help manufacturers turn workforce challenges into workforce solutions. When employers identify a need, whether it's developing maintenance talent, building leadership skills, or creating advancement pathways for incumbent workers, our role is to connect them with the right partners, resources, and training providers.
The collaboration between Manufacturing Works, First Solar, and CTS demonstrates the power of employer-led workforce development.
A Pathways to the Next Step
For employees like Luke, the program provides more than technical training. It provides a pathway. 
Luke joined First Solar as a production operator in 2023 after returning to Ohio with an interest in manufacturing and engineering. Today, he has advanced to a Tech II position and is working toward becoming a Mechanical Engineering Technician (MET).
What I found most compelling about Luke's story is that he knew where he wanted to go, but he needed an opportunity to get there. The training program helped create that opportunity.
Completing the program gives employees the knowledge, experience, and confidence needed to compete for future technical roles. For Luke, that means building the troubleshooting and maintenance skills that will help him continue advancing his career.
From Workforce Development to Community Impact
The impact of these workforce investments extends well beyond the walls of First Solar's facility.
The employees participating in training today are helping manufacture products that support major infrastructure projects across Ohio. One example is the Brooklyn Landfill Phase II solar project, which will utilize 12,264 Ohio-made First Solar panels and connect to Cleveland Public Power's electric grid.
When complete, the 10.5-megawatt Brooklyn site it is expected to be the largest solar installation in Cuyahoga County.
For me, this is where the story comes full circle. The individuals developing new skills through First Solar's training pathways are helping manufacture products that will ultimately serve communities throughout Ohio. It's a powerful reminder that workforce development isn't just about filling jobs. It's about creating opportunities for people, helping employers grow, and supporting projects that strengthen our communities.
Building the Workforce of the Future
First Solar's commitment to workforce development extends from internships and student engagement programs to incumbent worker upskilling and technical career advancement pathways. The company recognizes that one of the best ways to meet future workforce needs is to invest in the employees who are already part of the organization.
The partnership with CTS demonstrates what is possible when employers take a long-term approach to talent development. By creating meaningful opportunities for employees to learn new skills and advance their careers, First Solar is building the workforce it needs for the future while helping workers achieve their own career goals.
That's exactly the kind of employer-led workforce solution we need more of across Ohio.
Are you an Ohio manufacturer in the clean energy industry or supply chain interested in providing training for your workforce?
Reach out to Sylvia Rios at srios@mfgworkscle.org to connect to training opportunities and funding.