Wind Powers New Jobs
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Community colleges are stepping up to train technicians to work on wind turbines, huge white structures that from a distance look like tabletop personal fans. In the U.S., about 10 new wind turbines are installed daily, according to the American Wind Energy Association(AWEA). The association says 3,200 were installed in 2007, and there are more than 25,000 total turbines. Every 10 turbines require two people for operation and maintenance.
In 2002, wind energy comprised just one percent of new U.S. electrical power generation; in 2007, it generated 30 percent of new electrical energy.
Wind technology is attractive because it “doesn’t require fossil fuels to operate, and causes no harmful emissions, no extraction of fuel, no radioactive or hazardous wastes, no use of water for steam or cooling. Wind projects may spread over large areas, but their footprint is light. Farmers, ranchers and most other land owners continue their usual activities after wind turbines are installed on their property,†according to the Association’s web site.
One of the first wind energy technician training programs opened in 2004 at Iowa Lakes Community College, which hired someone to help them save money with wind power and found that the industry was anxious to support training. Fifteen students entered the 2004 program. Up to 90 are expected in the 2008 fall semester. Graduates often receive several job offers.
Wages in the industry are excellent, often starting at $35,000 to $40,000, according to FPL Energy in Florida, which has about 500 field workers, most technicians.
Students at Iowa Lake can choose a three semester diploma program with training in construction, maintenance and operation of wind turbines, preparing them for technician jobs. Or they may choose a five-semester program to start as turbine operators. Students also complete a summer internship with a wind company, including overseas opportunities.
Generally, high school students interested in the wind technician industry should take algebra and geometry and be familiar with computers. Classes in drafting and hands-on mechanical training such as auto repair are also a plus. They must be unafraid of heights, too - a turbine is about 300 feet off the ground.
People with bachelor’s and advanced degrees in fields like industrial and electrical engineering and atmospherics will also find good opportunities in the wind energy industry.
Windustry, another wind industry organization, provides information on where to find training.
Wind energy has also been good for manufacturing, adding to or reviving jobs in a number of communities. ASEA says extension of federal production tax credits are needed to maintain current industry growth.