Download the application.

The Wind Turbine Technician Academy is designed to prepare students for a specific occupation.  Unlike more generalized educational programs, this training opportunity is not likely to benefit students who do not intend to pursue employment as a Wind Turbine Technician.   

Students applying for admission to this academy will be asked to demonstrate the necessary pre-requisite knowledge and present evidence of relevant experience and capabilities employers require.

Sixteen (16) seats are available in this academy. Applications will be date stamped upon receipt.  In the event more than 16 candidates meet the provisional admission requirements, a waiting list will be created based on the date applications were received.

Admission Criteria

Willingness to Travel Extensively and on Short Notice Based on Employer’s Need
This criterion is an essential factor for companies who employ Wind Turbine Technicians.  Wind Turbine Technicians must be willing to go to locations where wind generation facilities are being constructed, where maintenance is to be performed, and to turbines in need of emergency repair.  Overtime is common in this occupation and crews must be easily assembled and dispatched to respond to emergencies.

Must Possess a Valid Driver’s License
Wind Turbine Technicians commonly are required to drive company owned vehicles.  Admission to the WTTA requires a photo copy of a valid driver’s license.  Employers may further scrutinize driving records, as this can affect the ability to provide insurance for their employees.  Candidates for the Wind Turbine Technician Academy should carefully consider their driving record and know that employment options may be negatively affected if they have a high number of points or driving related offenses.

Weight Cannot Exceed 260 Pounds
Work performed by Wind Turbine Technicians requires the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).  The average weight of equipment carried by a Wind Turbine Technician is 50 pounds.  PPE is rated for no more than 310 pounds.  Weight + equipment must = less than 310 pounds.

Experience in a Mechanical or Electrical Field of Work
This criterion is typically satisfied through verifiable paid work experience in a field where the use of tools and mechanical and/or electrical equipment is required.  Experience as an intern, participation in an educational program, apprenticeship, and other experiential work will be considered.

Must be Bondable
Criminal history can hinder the ability of an employee to be bonded.

Evidence to Support Communication and Teamwork Skills
The work environment for Wind Turbine Technicians requires small groups of workers in remote areas to work in harmony for the purpose of completing the tasks required and to assure the safety of each individual.  Teamwork, the ability to work well with others, capability to make decisions which require critical thinking, and to develop trust are key requirements for the job.  References play a key role in verifying these characteristics.  Please provide a minimum of two professional references on your application.

Possess a Working Knowledge of Technical Math Used in the Maintenance of Wind Turbines
Technical math skills are used to perform the calculations necessary for the program curriculum and for work in the field.

Speak, Read, and Write the English Language
English is the international language of wind.  Wind Turbine Technicians are responsible for creating written documentation for their work in the field.

Medical Examination will be Required to Verify a Candidate’s Ability to Distinguish Colors, Ability to Stand, Stoop, Climb up to 300 Feet Carrying 50 Pounds, Work Safely at Great Heights, and for Minimal Hearing Requirements
This requirement is necessary to verify the candidate’s physical capacity to safely perform the tasks required during the screening process, in the classroom, and while involved in field experience.

Climb Test
The Academy staff will arrange for the candidates to climb a tower.  An interview will take place at the time of the climb test to verify the candidate’s ability to perform work at great heights and in confined spaces.

Passport
You must have a valid passport or provide proof of filing for a Passport before your final admittance to the Academy.