Wind turbine technology is both a challenging and rewarding profession. Individuals in Kentucky who wish to become wind turbine technicians can expect to work on new projects, repair wind turbine structures, or assume key supervisory or managerial roles.
Regardless of the specific area in which they demonstrate their expertise, wind turbine technicians can always expect to make significant contributions to harnessing wind energy for clean, sustainable power.
Of course, to enter this discipline, the state of Kentucky has certain expectations for interested individuals. We explore all of these expectations and more in the upcoming sections.
How to Become a Wind Turbine Mechanic in Kentucky
Below are the expectations required of aspiring wind turbine technicians in Kentucky.
Physical Fitness & Basic Educational Requirements
Most wind turbine technology schools in Kentucky require a high school diploma or GED before admission can be granted. Candidates are also expected to be in strong physical shape.
Physical fitness is essential for handling the demanding nature of the job, which involves lifting heavy materials, working outdoors in adverse weather conditions, climbing, and standing or bending for extended periods.
Step 2: Enroll in a Training Program
While formal education isn’t a strict requirement to become a wind turbine mechanic, enrolling in a trade school or community college program can be a smart move. These programs offer hands-on training in a structured setting and often lead to a certificate or associate’s degree.
Having this kind of credential not only boosts a candidate’s credibility but also makes it easier for them to secure a job in the field. Many programs are designed with flexibility in mind, offering evening or weekend classes, as well as hybrid options that combine online and in-person learning to accommodate diverse schedules.
Step 3: Apprenticeship Education
Apprenticeship education can be combined with formal academic education to produce well-rounded wind turbine mechanics. This form of education is more suitable for those who prefer to learn on the job and enjoy the opportunity to earn a salary while still in training.
Step 4: Employment & Career Optimization
Candidates who have received proper training can secure employment with renewable energy and wind energy companies across the state. They can also ultimately become contractors or supervisors while advancing their careers through continuing education and certification.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
While there are several certifying bodies and organizations with credentials for wind turbine mechanics in Kentucky, candidates would do well to pursue certification from the top organizations. Currently, these include the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and the Electronics Technicians Association.
Additionally, completing training through the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) courses, such as Basic Technical Training (BTT) and Basic Safety Training (BST), can enhance employability by demonstrating internationally recognized safety and technical standards. OSHA certifications are also valuable for safety compliance in the industry.
Applicants should be prepared to pay the necessary fees and complete certification examinations before they can become certified. Regarding licensing, wind turbine mechanics in Kentucky can work under a contractor without a state license.
Top Wind Turbine Mechanic Schools in Kentucky
All of the entries below boast excellent training arrangements for future wind turbine mechanics in Kentucky.
Gateway Community & Technical College
Florence, KY Campus Only
Gateway Community & Technical College offers an Energy Technologies training program that equips students with foundational knowledge in renewable energy systems, including wind turbine technology.
Tuition
$195 - $270 per CreditContact
(859) 442-1144
david.schaefer@kctcs.edu
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
Cumberland, KY Campus Only
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College provides a robust Industrial Maintenance Technology training program ideal for those seeking careers in wind energy and other renewable energy sectors.
Tuition
$195 - $270 per CreditContact
(606) 598-3285
tlong0018@kctcs.edu
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Lexington, KY Campus Only
Bluegrass Community and Technical College offers an Industrial Maintenance Technology program that prepares students for technical roles in renewable energy, including wind turbine mechanics.
Tuition
$195 - $270 per CreditContact
(859) 246-6518
mike.binzer@kctcs.edu
Explore wind turbine technician schools in Kentucky by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary of wind turbine mechanics in Kentucky can range from $29,530 to $68,615, according to ZipRecruiter. At the lower end, candidates earning the $29,530 figure are among the lowest paid in the state, while those earning the $68,615 figure are among the highest paid.
While these two figures are indeed possible, the most common category is those who are in the middle. Professionals here make an annual average salary of $47,100, which is in line with the national average as well.
Candidates can enhance their earnings by gaining more experience, acquiring professional credentials, working with favorable employers, and selecting a favorable location. Hopkinsville is where candidates have the highest income in Kentucky, with an annual average salary of $54,453.
Following this are Corbin, with an annual average salary of $54,228, and Florence, with an annual average salary of $53,821.