How to become a wind turbine technician

Is becoming a wind turbine technician right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do wind turbine technicians do?
Career Satisfaction
Are wind turbine technicians happy with their careers?
Personality
What are wind turbine technicians like?

Still unsure if becoming a wind turbine technician is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a wind turbine technician or another similar career!

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How to become a Wind Turbine Technician

If you’re thinking about a career as a wind turbine technician, here’s a clear path to help you get started and succeed in this growing field:

  • Complete Technical Training: Enroll in a certificate or associate degree program focused on wind energy technology, electrical systems, or related fields. These programs teach you about turbine mechanics, electrical circuits, hydraulics, and essential safety practices, giving you the foundation needed for the job.
  • Gain Hands-On Experience: Look for internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions where you can work alongside experienced technicians. This real-world experience helps you understand turbine operations and develop troubleshooting skills that classroom learning alone can’t provide.
  • Develop Physical Fitness: The job requires climbing turbines that can be over 300 feet tall and working outside in all kinds of weather. Building good physical strength, stamina, and comfort with heights is important to stay safe and perform well on the job.
  • Earn Certifications: Industry certifications like the Wind Energy Technician Certification from NABCEP show employers that you have specialized knowledge. Completing safety training such as OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 also helps you meet workplace safety standards, which are critical in this hands-on, high-risk job.
  • Stay Connected: Join industry groups, attend renewable energy events, and follow the latest trends in wind technology. Networking and staying informed can help you find job opportunities and advance your career in this fast-growing field.

Certifications
Here are some key certifications that can help boost your career as a wind turbine technician:

  • NABCEP Wind Energy Technician Certification: Offered by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, this certification validates your knowledge and skills specifically in wind energy technology. It’s widely recognized by employers and can give you a competitive edge.
  • OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Safety Training: These Occupational Safety and Health Administration courses focus on workplace safety. OSHA 10 provides basic safety training, while OSHA 30 offers more in-depth instruction. Both are important for working safely on wind turbine sites.
  • First Aid and CPR Certification: Being certified in first aid and CPR is often required for field technicians since turbine work can involve remote or hazardous locations.
  • Electrical or Mechanical Certifications: Certifications related to electrical or mechanical trades (such as those from trade schools or technical colleges) can also be valuable, as wind turbines involve complex electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Climbing and Rescue Training: Specialized training for working safely at heights, including rescue techniques, is critical given the nature of turbine work.