What Does a Wind Turbine Technician Do?

Most wind turbine technicians attend technical schools and earn certificates in wind energy technology. Another path is to earn an associate degree through a community college to earn a degree.

Students receive more than 12 months of on-the-job-training in addition to coursework. Part of this may be an internship with a wind turbine servicing contractor. Apprenticeships are a less common pathway, but they are offered by unions and contractors.

Learn more, including more about training costs, time required and specific examples, by reading How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician.

You don’t need a license to become a wind turbine technician, but certification is recommended because that’s a qualification employers like to see.

For the apprenticeship route, students must be at least 18 years old and have earned their high school diploma or equivalent. 

Good health and physical stamina are important for anyone who wants to become a wind turbine technician.

Programs differ, but most take one or two years. The 12 months of on-the-job training may happen alongside the coursework or after. 

Yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says employment will grow 68% from 2020 to 2030. (To put that in perspective, employment for all jobs is expected to grow 8%.) However, there aren’t as many openings as you might expect — about 1,400 job openings each year.

It can be, yes. Because wind turbine technicians work at great heights and rappel down to reach certain equipment, this job is for someone who likes a thrill but takes safety seriously. 

These are the top traits of people who become successful in this career:
•    Enjoy working outdoors
•    Are able to climb ladder systems, often 260 feet high
•    Have excellent communication skills
•    Are detail-oriented
•    Have excellent mechanical skills
•    Possess the physical strength to lift heavy equipment