Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Minnesota

There are many reasons to consider working as a wind turbine mechanic in Minnesota. These professionals are well-rewarded for their efforts in the state and are projected to be among the most highly sought-after in the years to come.

Starting a wind-turning mechanic career in Minnesota now is equivalent to getting a head start and becoming well-positioned for the future.

The article below explores everything candidates must know to enjoy these benefits and start their wind turbine mechanic careers as smoothly as possible. We look at the basic prerequisites, educational requirements, licensure and certification options, and the top schools in the state offering top-class training in wind turbine technology.

Lastly, we explore the state’s possible annual average salary for wind turbine mechanics based on key factors.

How to Become a Wind Turbine Mechanic in Minnesota

Minnesota’s major requirements for becoming a wind turbine mechanic are the following.

Academic Training

Academic training is necessary for an aspiring wind turbine mechanic in Minnesota because it introduces them to the fundamental principles of the job. These programs — typically offered by community colleges and technical schools — are also sought after due to the certificates and degrees that they offer, which are usually very appealing to potential employers.

Candidates may also participate in general Renewable Energy Technology programs focusing on wind energy installation.

On the Job Training

“On the job” training for future wind turbine mechanics in Minnesota helps them gain valuable experience in the real world. This training may be offered at academic programs, wind technology companies, and professional organizations.

They also provide valuable experience and help candidates develop the confidence to operate independently and thrive when they eventually secure employment.

On-the-job training for Minnesota wind turbine mechanics usually lasts up to one year.

Combining Both Approaches

Even though candidates in Minnesota may start their wind turbine mechanic career by choosing between academic programs or an on-the-job training program, many experts agree that combining both of these avenues is the best approach.

This is why it is common to see academic programs encouraging internships and workshop projects with wind turbines on campus.

It is also why apprenticeship programs always feel free to incorporate some form of classroom training.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn to become a solar technician in Minnesota

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Aspiring wind turbine mechanics in Minnesota will be glad to know that they are not expected to obtain a license in the state before they begin their careers. They are also not expected to obtain certification, but doing so is a common practice.

Earning certification from a professional organization doesn’t just give wind turbine mechanics in the state an avenue to network with fellow professionals; it also gives them extra credibility, which makes employment easier.

Concerning the best organizations to receive nationally recognized professional credentials as a wind turbine mechanic in Minnesota, the most prominent options are NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) and ETA (Electronics Technicians Association).

Top Wind Turbine Mechanic Schools in Minnesota

Aspiring wind turbine mechanics in Minnesota may consider any of the options below for top-class training.

Explore wind turbine technician schools in Minnesota by city:

• Wind turbine technician schools in Minneapolis

Salary & Career Outlook

In Minnesota, a wind turbine mechanic in the midpoint range of earners may earn an annual average salary of $52,164 – the same as the national average. Further up the salary spectrum are wind turbine mechanics in the state, which are in the top 10%. They take home an annual average salary of $71,077.

Those among the bottom 10% still manage an annual average salary of $38,283. Some criteria determining where a wind turbine mechanic lands on the salary spectrum in Minnesota are their location, experience level, and specialty area.

For instance, the top 3 cities in the state to work as a wind turbine mechanic (by salary) are Minneapolis, where wind turbine mechanics earn an annual average salary of $51,679; Rochester, where they earn an annual average salary of $51,111, and Wimont, with an annual average salary of $48,244.