In Arizona, wind turbine mechanics leverage their extensive knowledge of wind turbine technology to help repair, maintain, and install critical components that make the technology function as it should. Thanks in part to the gradual global shift towards renewable energy, the field is fast becoming one of the most popular options for individuals in the state.
Candidates interested in becoming a wind turbine mechanic in Arizona will be glad to know that the sections below contain everything they’ll need to launch their careers properly. This includes everything from basic prerequisites to educational requirements, possible training programs, certification requirements, salary projections, and more.
How to Become a Wind Turbine Mechanic in Arizona
The following are the most important steps in starting a wind turbine mechanic career in Arizona.
Academic Education
The first step in starting a career as a wind turbine mechanic in Arizona is to secure admission into a training program. It is typical for training institutions to ask that candidates possibly get a diploma from high school or a GED.
Once admission is secured, candidates will spend two years acquiring extensive training regarding fundamental and advanced topics in wind turbine technology. They will spend most of their time in the classroom, but some programs have provisions for hands-on training in laboratories or the real world.
Two-year colleges and technical schools typically offer academic wind turbine mechanic programs. Some may also last 6 months and offer a certificate instead of an associate degree.
Real-World Training
Even though, as mentioned above, it is common for some programs to have provisions for hands-on training in laboratories or the real world, more is needed to start a full-fledged career. For this reason, candidates set aside some time for further real-world experience.
It is possible to secure employment before completing real-world training, as most employers are willing to offer on-the-job training for fresh wind turbine mechanics in Arizona.
Certification
Certification is not a necessary component of being a wind turbine mechanic. Most candidates choose to earn one anyway because it gives them an edge when securing contracts and employment with the best establishments in the area.
Getting Hired
Candidates who have completed the above steps will have a significant edge in the job market. They can secure employment fast and improve their prospects by taking advantage of continuing education opportunities.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Wind turbine mechanics in Arizona are expected to obtain a license from somewhere other than the state. Those looking to acquire some level of professional credentials may go for the following alternatives:
- The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA),
- the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP),
- the Electronics Technicians Association (ETA),
- ENSA North America, Inc (ENSA), and
- the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Training Program, among others.
These credentials offer the general benefits one would expect, including continuing education opportunities and skills verification.
Top Wind Turbine Mechanic Schools in Arizona
Aspiring wind turbine mechanics in Arizona may consider the options below for high-quality training.
Arizona State University
At Arizona State University, future wind turbine mechanics may enroll in a bachelor’s degree program officially called the Electrician Electrical Engineering BSE with an Emphasis on Electrical Power and Energy Assistance program. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities and received the 20% Wind Energy Funding Opportunity Announcement award.
Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University is another institution in the state offering top-quality wind turbine technology training. The school boasts a modern wind application center known as the Arizona Wind Application Center and operates at a very high educational standard.
Notable Mentions
Individuals may also consider enrolling in the Associate of Applied Science degree program in Alternate Alternative Energy Technology offered by the Coconino Community College and the basic high school level training offered by the Northeast Arizona Technical Institute of Vocational Education (N.A.T.I.V.E).
Explore wind turbine mechanic schools by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Wind turbine mechanics in Arizona who are in the mid-range of earners take home an annual average salary of $43,987. While the highest earners in the top 10% earn around $50,364 annually, the lowest earners in the bottom 10% take home an annual average salary of $39,195.
By optimizing factors such as experience, location, credentials, and specific employment establishment, Arizona wind turbine mechanics may move from the lower end of the salary spectrum to the higher end.
As for some of the most popular locations to practice as a wind turbine mechanic in Arizona, they include Scottsdale with an annual average salary of $66,180, Phoenix with an annual average salary of $66,755, and Tucson with an annual average salary of $63,155.
Wind turbine mechanics in Mesa earn an annual average salary of $62,912.
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