The Future of Renewable Energy Jobs: Why Wind Energy Certifications Matter

As the world shifts toward cleaner energy solutions, renewable energy jobs are becoming increasingly vital. Among them, wind energy careers are experiencing rapid growth.

In fact, employment for wind technicians is projected to grow 60% from 2023 to 2033.⁶³

Obtaining a wind energy certification can be a way to add demonstration of knowledge to your resume as a wind turbine technician.  Whether you are just starting or looking to advance in the industry, proper wind turbine training can set you on the right path.

Keep reading to learn more about the roles of wind turbine technicians, how you can obtain certification and choosing the right training program for you.

The Growing Demand for Wind Turbine Technicians

With the global push for renewable energy, the demand for skilled wind energy technicians is on the rise. Governments and the private sector alike are investing in wind power infrastructure, creating numerous job opportunities for trained professionals.

What Does a Wind Turbine Technician Do?

Wind turbine technicians play a crucial role in the maintenance and operation of wind energy systems. Their work ensures that wind turbines function efficiently, producing clean and sustainable power.

READ MORE: IS A CAREER AS A WIND TURBINE TECHNICIAN A GOOD CHOICE?

Key responsibilities of a wind turbine technician

The responsibilities of a wind tech may vary depending on where they’re working and the sector they’re in. Some common responsibilities may include:

• Inspecting and maintaining wind turbine components.
• Diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems.
• Conducting routine safety checks.
• Climbing turbine towers for hands-on maintenance.
• Monitoring wind energy systems and reporting issues.

Skills needed for success in the wind energy industry

To succeed in this career, wind turbine technicians must develop a mix of technical, physical and problem-solving skills:

• Strong mechanical and electrical knowledge
• Ability to work at heights and in various weather conditions
• Critical thinking and troubleshooting skills
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Why Wind Energy Certifications Matter

Earning a wind energy certification can provide several benefits, from ensuring safety to increasing career prospects. Certifications demonstrate competency and commitment to the industry, which can help make candidates more attractive to employers.

Ensuring safety and compliance with industry regulations

Safety is a top priority in the wind energy sector. Wind turbine training and certification helps ensure technicians adhere to strict industry safety standards, reducing workplace accidents and improving overall efficiency.

Increasing job opportunities and higher earning potential

Certified wind technicians may have better job prospects and higher earning potential as having these certifications on their resumes can help show employers they know certain skills and meet specific job requirements.

Meeting employer and manufacturer training requirements

Some wind turbine manufacturers and employers require specific certifications before allowing technicians to work on their equipment. Meeting these requirements by obtaining certification ensures technicians are fully qualified to handle complex wind energy systems.

Top Wind Energy Certifications for Career Advancement

Several certifications can help wind turbine technicians advance their careers and enhance their skills.

Global Wind Organisation (GWO) certification

GWO certification is widely recognized in the wind energy industry and covers essential safety training, including working at heights, fire awareness and first aid.

Safety is the top priority for wind employers today, making GWO certification an important one to have as a wind technician.

Universal Technical Institute offers a Wind Turbine Technician training program that actually helps students earn the GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) certification, which is a key factor that helps make this program a great choice for those interested in pursuing a career in the wind industry.¹

Since GWO certification is required for companies and employees to access most U.S. wind plants, it plays a crucial role in job readiness.

North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification

NABCEP certification is ideal for technicians looking to expand their knowledge in renewable energy systems, including wind and solar technologies.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety training

OSHA safety training is crucial for all wind turbine technicians, ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations and reducing the risk of accidents.

How To Become a Certified Wind Turbine Technician

Becoming a certified wind technician involves a combination of training and hands-on experience.

One of the best steps you can take toward becoming a certified tech is enrolling in an accredited training program that will help give you the education you need to work in the wind industry.

The Wind Turbine Technician training program at UTI is a seven-month program that teaches students the skills to inspect and service wind turbine towers. Students take a variety of courses that help give them the foundation of knowledge they can build upon in the industry, along with GWO safety certification. This is a necessary step before obtaining additional wind energy certifications.

Career Opportunities for Certified Wind Turbine Technicians

Certified wind turbine technicians have a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors. Graduates from UTI’s Wind Turbine Technician program are prepared to pursue entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work.⁷⁷ Some potential roles include:

Entry-Level

• Wind turbine technician
• Installation technician
• Field service technician

Advanced

• Troubleshooting technician
• LOTO I & II specialist
• Wind farm support specialist
• Research and development
• Electrical engineer
• Environmental engineer
• Materials engineer

READ MORE: WIND TURBINE TECHNICIAN JOBS & CAREER OUTLOOK

Train for a Career in Wind Energy at UTI

If you’re ready to start a career in wind energy, we’ll help you take the first step toward that goal.¹

By enrolling in the Wind Turbine Technician program at one of UTI’s campuses, you can gain the skills needed to enter this exciting and growing industry.

Start your journey today and become a part of the renewable energy revolution!  Request more info or take the leap and enroll today.