College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Joe Cleary, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
Skip the Grid is a student led interdisciplinary project that aims to bring sustainable solar energy to families in the Navajo Nation who lack reliable power at home. The 2026 Skip the Grid trip was the fifth consecutive year of the joint effort between California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) students across multiple departments, Heart of America (HOA), SOLV Energy, and Nextpower. Over the three working days the 5 teams installed Goal Zero Solar Systems in 50 homes on both the Navajo Nation and Hopi Reservation. These systems brough power, light, and refrigeration to families, enhancing their quality of life and increasing educational equity by allowing children to continue to learn and do schoolwork at home. Additionally, the students organized and attended an educational night for the Holbrook School District students providing both solar education and professional preparation for older students. In the months leading up to the trip students worked to practice installations, prepare materials and resources, and to plan the logistics for the trip. This project is a perfect example of Cal Poly’s “Learn by Doing” motto as students conducted hands-on installations and worked collaboratively to complete all the necessary preparation for a successful trip.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/961
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