College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2025
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Joseph Cleary, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
An interdisciplinary service-learning program called Skip the Grid provides solar energy systems to Navajo Nation homes without consistent access to electricity. A group of 20 California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) students from different majors that include Construction Management, Mechanical Engineers, Business, and Electrical Engineers traveled to Arizona from March 23rd to 27th, 2025, to install Goal Zero solar energy systems on over 40 homes from the Navajo Nation. This project was made possible through the generous support and collaboration of SOLV Energy, Heart of America (HOA), Goal Zero, Chinle High School, and Cal Poly. These solar systems help give access to light and energy to many families and students as many of them find it difficult to complete their assignments without electricity. This project was all about giving back to the community while learning valuable skills in safety, installation, communication, and learning the culture of the Navajo Nation. The team created and followed a detailed safety and pre-task plan to ensure smooth operations throughout the three-day installation period. This project served as a reminder that small efforts can create lasting impacts and for the first time, these families now have access to consistent lighting, device charging, and refrigeration.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/880
Poster Board
Included in
Construction Engineering Commons, Construction Engineering and Management Commons, Environmental Design Commons