The CLIMB READY – Wind Technician Program at RTC provides college-entry students with a comprehensive and immersive training experience, designed to equip them with essential safety and technical skills required for a successful career in the wind energy industry. The program emphasizes safety and technical proficiency, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands. Upon successful completion, participants will gain knowledge of wind career safety, covering OSHA 10, first aid, manual handling, fire awareness, working at heights, control of hazardous energy, and hoist user training. Technical skills training includes mechanical, electrical, bolt tightening, and hydraulics competencies. Graduates will also earn several key industry certifications, such as the NFPA 70E Low Voltage Qualified Certificate, HSI First Aid/CPR/AED Certificate, OSHA 10-hour Certificate, and the GWO BST Certificate. 

Duration: 2 weeks, Monday through Friday, 8am-4pm 

Format: In-person at the Renewable Training Center in St. Ansgar, IA. 

Certifications: Participants will earn certifications in OSHA 10-hour, GWO BST (verified by WINDA), First Aid/CPR/AED, and NFPA 70E Low Voltage Qualified. 

Career and Industry Outlook 

Career Opportunities: Job opportunities for wind technicians are expanding as the renewable energy sector grows. Career paths include roles in onshore and offshore wind farms, focusing on turbine maintenance, electrical systems, and safety management. Specializations in turbine repair and wind farm operations are also available. 

Employment Rate: The wind energy industry is experiencing rapid growth due to the global push for renewable energy and reduced carbon emissions, leading to an increased demand for skilled wind technicians. 

Salary Expectations: Salaries for wind technicians depend on experience, specialization, and location. With more experience and certifications, salary can increase further. 

Job Market Trends: The renewable energy sector is expanding rapidly, with more countries investing in wind power as a sustainable energy source. Technological advancements in wind turbine efficiency and maintenance also create evolving opportunities for technicians. 

Program Details 

Program Specific Details: 

• Students will learn proper safety protocols (OSHA 10, first aid, fire awareness). 
• Working at heights, manual handling, and hoist user training are included in the program. 
• Students will receive technical training in mechanical, electrical systems, bolt tightening, and hydraulics. 
• Students will receive NFPA 70E Low Voltage Qualified training. 

Pathway to Credit: This is a non-credit training program aimed at quickly preparing students for entry-level employment in the wind industry. Additional certifications or advanced programs may offer pathways for credit accumulation or professional certification.  

Cost and Financial Assistance 

Tuition Fees: Check the program’s page for up-to-date pricing based on the course offerings and location.  

Tuition Assistance Options: Financial aid may be available through workforce development programs or grants. Specific financial assistance details can be provided upon request.  

Work-Study Programs: N/A for this program, but some students may be eligible for state-based workforce development funding or job placement assistance.  

How to Enroll  

Enrollment Process: There are no entrance exams or specific admission requirements for this program. Students can start the enrollment process by completing the Education to Employment Interest Form available on the program’s webpage.  

Eligibility Requirements: 

• High school completion or equivalent. 
• Age: 18 years or older. 
• No prior experience working with wind turbines is required. 

Deadlines: Check the program’s page for upcoming session start dates.  

Next Steps After Interest Form: Once the interest form is submitted, students will be contacted by staff from the Education to Employment team to discuss program enrollment and tuition assistance options.   

Program Requirements & Equipment 

Required Equipment or Supplies: Safety boots and other personal protective equipment (PPE) for training activities. 

Pre-Course Skills & Expectations:  

• No specific prior knowledge is required, though an interest in mechanical and electrical systems is helpful. 
• Problem-solving and communication skills are essential for successful collaboration in the workplace.  
• An open attitude towards learning new techniques and technologies will help students keep pace with advances in the field.  

Additional Considerations: Physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging conditions, such as at heights and in adverse weather, are essential for success in this field. Strict adherence to safety protocols is mandatory.