Wind turbine mechanics undergo a lot of training to become familiar with how wind power generation works. Apart from the technical aspect of the job, a career as a wind turbine mechanic also requires a lot of physical exertion, including climbing, crouching, and standing.
Below, we dive into the various requirements of becoming a wind turbine mechanic in California. Aspiring candidates will discover a plethora of useful information, including the basic educational requirements, certification and licensing requirements, and the possible training programs to enroll in all around the state.
Those curious about the potential salary and career outlook will also be satisfied after going through the section detailing the projected career salary for wind turbine mechanics in California based on a handful of determining factors.
How to Become a Wind Turbine Mechanic in California
The following are the key steps to starting a wind turbine mechanic career in California.
Step 1: High School Diploma or GED
The basic educational requirement for California wind turbine technicians is a high school diploma or GED. Receiving additional formal education after this is optional, but regardless of the chosen training path, employers and instructors will most likely ask for either of these credentials.
Step 2: Attend a Training Program
Typically, wind turbine mechanics in California start their careers by attending a technical school. They will learn all the theoretical skills required to secure employment during their program. Most wind turbine mechanic schools are arranged as a 2-year technical program.
Students may also be focused on classroom instructions, with the hands-on experience part of the training left to potential employers.
Step 3: Hands-On Training
While academic training programs focus predominantly on classroom instructions and topics, candidates still need real-world experience to succeed as wind turbine technicians.
It is common for this part of the training to be reserved until after employment is secured. Employers will then have the duty of providing on-the-job training for some time until the candidates are satisfied with their learning.
Usually, on-the-job training for wind turbine mechanics in California lasts 12 months.
Step 4: Certification and Employment
Lastly, wind turbine mechanics in California are advised to become certified to improve their career opportunities and network with fellow professionals in the field. As we will see below, certification is optional but very important.
From here, candidates may assemble their resumes and apply for jobs at relevant companies.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
California wind turbine mechanics are not expected to receive a license before practicing legally. Every agency or state body is in charge of licensing wind turbine mechanics in the state.
That said, candidates looking to become certified to improve their career opportunities may consider some of the most respected credentials in the industry, such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. The board offers an array of certifications to renewable energy professionals, including those who work in solar and wind technologies.
Another option to consider is the Electronics Technicians Association (ETA).
Top Wind Turbine Mechanic Schools in California
The following are some of the top wind turbine mechanic schools in California;
Los Angeles Trade Technical School
Through the Renewable Energy degree program at Los Angeles Trade Technical School, candidates will receive the knowledge and skills required to secure employment in any energy and utility sector while being able to work in energy efficiency fields and as wind turbine mechanics as well.
Universal Technical Institute
The Universal Technical Institute in Rancho Cucamonga offers a program designed to help candidates build knowledge of wind technology even without prior experience. Accepted applicants get to participate in a series of classroom sessions combined with hands-on laboratory practices.
Notable Mentions
Other notable mentions include California Wind Tech, San Jose State University, Cerritos College, Cal Maritime Academy, College of the Desert, and Golden West College.
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Salary & Career Outlook
In California, wind turbine mechanics earn an annual salary of $58,104, more or less the national average. It is also possible to scale higher so that one earns an annual average salary in line with the top 10% earners in the state.
Those who fall into this category make around $89,699 every year. Meanwhile, wind turbine technicians in California who are among the bottom 10% still manage an annual average salary of $37,637.
Salinas, Birds Landing, and San Diego are California’s three highest-paying cities for being a wind turbine mechanic. Professionals here make annual average salaries of $73,129, $62,201, and $59,705, respectively.
Rosemond and Bakersfield follow them with annual average salaries of $57,579 and $55,864 respectively.
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