Wind Energy Technology

Program Description

The wind energy industry is the fastest growing segment of renewable energy production. The U.S. and Canadian commercial wind farms are experiencing annual growth of 25%. Employers seek skilled technicians for operation and maintenance activities in local wind farm settings. There is also intense demand for upper-level technicians within U.S. and international wind turbine manufacturers; these include installation technician, quality control technician, and warranty and commissioning technicians. Operation and maintenance positions generally remain with a given wind farm location; other technicians travel extensively with the development of new wind farms and repair/retrofitting of wind farms around the world.

Students are able to complete their general studies courses and a number of core program courses at Moraine Park and enroll in the Wind Energy Technology courses at Lakeshore Technical College (LTC). LTC's Wind Energy Technology courses focus on applying knowledge and skills to install, test, service and repair wind turbine components and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. They also focus on applying safety practices required on the job and learning safe wind turbine tower climbing skills.

Statewide Salary Range for Recent Graduates

$35,357 $51,996

Approximate Costs

• $122.20 per credit (resident)
• $183.30 per credit (out-of-state resident)
• *Online students are not charged out-of-state fees.

Program Outcomes

• Install, test, service and repair wind turbine components.
• Troubleshoot and maintain control and PLC systems.
• Wear PPE for climbing and identify safety practices for climbing.
• Safely climb wind turbine towers.

Career Opportunities

• Installation Technician
• Operation and Maintenance Technician
• Wind Farm Maintenance Manager
• Wind Turbine Technician/Mechanic/Tower Climber

Entrance Scores