Let’s be honest, becoming a wind turbine technician is not for the faint of heart. On a typical day, your workplace is 100 feet above the ground. But if you like having this unconventional office, then you should think about becoming a wind turbine technician.
What is a wind turbine technician?
The core job of a wind turbine technician is to inspect, install, operate, maintain, and repair wind turbines. In case the wind turbine runs into a glitch, a wind turbine technician will figure out what is causing the issue and fix it. This is in addition to routine maintenance and inspections.
Why should you become a wind turbine technician?
Naturally, the most common question for anyone to ask is, why should I become a wind tech? What is so great about it? Below are just some of the few reasons why many wind techs love their career choice:
- An increasing number of jobs: The utilization of wind power has increased across the country, especially along the coasts and in Great Plains and Midwest; the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 61% growth in jobs in the next ten years!
- Jobs that pay: As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, wind turbine technicians made a median salary of $56,000 in 2020. In fact, the top 10% of wind turbine technicians made upwards of $83,000.
- Work as an employee or individual contractor: Most wind technicians work as employees for electrical power companies, but you can also work on a contract or as a self-employed technician. Needless to say, self-employment gives you greater control over your work hours and compensation.
- You love outdoors: By now, it is pretty clear that wind turbine technician is not a role for the fainthearted or people who prefer indoors. As a wind technician, you will spend a considerable amount of time working in vast expanses outdoors. For those who love the outdoors, this is an excellent option.
- You enjoy being physically and mentally fit: Working with wind turbines at 100 feet heights requires great physical and mental strength. You need to take care of your body and be in great shape. You can go to this post that details the physical requirements and readiness necessary for the job.
- You want to positively contribute to our planet: Fossil fuel is a limited and exhaustible energy resource, so there is a need to find alternatives to meet the growing energy demands. Over the past couple of decades, we have made headways with exploring renewable energy sources. The wind is an omnipresent source that humans can harness to generate energy.
How to become a wind turbine technician?
Unlike many other professions, the initial investment, in terms of cost and time, is comparatively lower. Typically, the programs are completed in 6 months with good employment opportunities. While considering a program for becoming a wind tech, you will want to opt for one that can help you obtain scholarships, financial aid, and housing.
You would also want to make sure the program has close connections with employers and offers job placement assistance. For example, our training program at NW-REI, in most cases, is able to connect our graduates with employers right away. Companies know they can trust us and that our graduates are proficient in safety, teamwork, and technical skills needed for them to succeed in this industry.