I decided to have a little fun by adding a slight twist to some fortune cookie wisdom in the title for this post. But I think the title is very appropriate since wind turbine technicians can really see the world while working to keep the turbines turning to meet our renewable energy goals. Being a technician is an adventure that takes you to breathtaking heights and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Wind turbine technicians are responsible for the maintenance and repair of those gleaming white towers. You'll inspect and troubleshoot the turbines, ensuring they operate at maximum efficiency. This involves climbing the turbines which are hundreds of feet high, where you will perform inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance. Being a technician is a physically demanding job which requires technical knowledge and expertise. Given the risks involved, safety is the number one focus while doing these tasks.
Wind turbines are often situated in beautiful remote locations. You could find yourself standing on top of a wind turbine, surrounded by endless stretches of rolling hills or the vastness of the ocean. From the top of a turbine, you may get to experience stunning sunrises and sunsets that will take your breath away. Being a technician allows you to connect with nature in a unique way.
Many technician jobs require you to be on the move. Wind farms can be scattered across different regions in the U.S. or even in foreign countries. For these traveling technician jobs, you'll travel to various sites to perform maintenance and repairs. For example, traveling wind techs are often on a 4 to 6 week rotation which means working 4 or 6 weeks then having a few days or a week off. While traveling your expenses are typically covered and this if often in the form of a per-diem or fixed amount per day. This means you can choose how best to spend the money and you may be able to keep some in your pocket. You may be at one site for a few weeks or a few months. Many people like adventure and excitement that can come with travel, but some technicians are able to stay in a particular region if travel is not an option for them.
Training and experience are essential to being successful as a technician. While formal education requirements vary, most technicians do pursue some level of specialized training. These programs cover topics such as electrical systems, mechanical components, safety procedures, and climbing techniques. But the most important lessons come from actually doing the work so on the job training is essential.
Being a wind turbine technician is an exciting and rewarding career. You'll work on new technology, while being surrounded by stunning landscapes. Being a tech requires a strong sense of adventure, physical fitness, and a passion for renewable energy. So, if you're up for the challenge, this could be the perfect career path for you!
