Owner & Founder, Illumination Solar Training Systems
Illumination Solar Training Systems was founded on a simple but powerful idea: if students can see it, touch it, and build it, they can believe they belong in the energy industry. For founder Nick Matthes – a NABCEP-certified PV Installation Professional, and Wisconsin Master Electrician – that belief has guided over 20 years of installing, inspecting, and now teaching photovoltaics, inspiring the creation of his company.
Nick started Illumination Solar Training Systems to build hands-on solar training labs for technical colleges and workforce training organizations. His goal is straightforward: integrate real-world solar competencies into curriculum so students can experience what it’s like to be a solar installer. That means working with the tools, materials, wiring, and components they’ll encounter on the job—and build confidence along the way.
What Nick loves most about his work is the moment the light turns on—literally and figuratively. He recalls the first time he saw a solar electric system working; it “blew his mind.” Today, he gets to replicate that experience for students across the country and beyond. By breaking down complex electrical concepts into digestible, approachable lessons, he helps students—technical and non-technical alike—realize they can master these skills.
One of his proudest accomplishments has been the development of mobile solar training labs that travel to communities with limited access to renewable energy education. In just two years, these labs have reached tribal communities across the United States, remote regions, dense urban centers, Caribbean islands, and parts of South America. In many of these locations, students had never seen a functioning solar training system up close. Now, they’re wiring panels, testing components, and exploring career pathways in a growing industry. These efforts earned recognition as a finalist in the U.S. Department of Energy’s American-Made Solar Prize Round 7, along with three consecutive wins in the (JEDI) Contest—validating the labs’ role in making solar education and careers more broadly accessible.
Nick sees the energy sector at a pivotal moment. Demand for electricity is surging—driven by electrification, expanding infrastructure, and the rapid growth of artificial intelligence. That rising demand creates both challenges and opportunity. Solar photovoltaics, he explains, has emerged as a frontrunner because it is fast to deploy, increasingly cost-effective, and powered by an abundant resource: the sun. While other technologies play important roles, solar speed and scalability make it uniquely positioned to help meet immediate needs.
He also points to battery storage as one of the most exciting areas of innovation. Advances in energy storage, particularly in battery efficiency and affordability—are unlocking new potential for renewables, transportation, and grid resilience. As storage improves, the ability to deploy solar at scale becomes even more transformative.
At the same time, Nick acknowledges challenges, including resistance to renewable energy adoption in some regions. Yet he remains optimistic. Globally, investment in solar energy continues to grow because it makes economic and practical sense. For him, the transition isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s an energy strategy rooted in reliability and resilience.
When asked what skills are essential for success in the energy sector, Nick offers a simple framework: attitude, skills, and knowledge. Curiosity and humility come first. Technical skills can be developed. Knowledge grows over time. What matters most is a willingness to learn and collaborate. The energy industry needs installers, engineers, IT specialists, researchers, administrators, and innovators of all kinds.
His advice to students considering a career in energy? Keep an open mind. Find what excites you. Don’t let outside noise or skepticism stop you from pursuing meaningful work. “There will always be people who say you can’t,” he shares. “That’s just noise.”
For Nick Matthes, lighting the way forward isn’t just about solar panels—it’s about empowering people. And through hands-on learning and relentless curiosity, he’s helping build the next generation of energy leaders.
Find more information about Nick and Illumination Solar Training Systems here:
