Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Louisiana

Wind turbine mechanics and technicians maintain, repair, and service wind turbine systems that generate clean, sustainable energy. They also assist engineers and other professionals in the industry with the installation of new wind turbines.

Becoming a wind turbine mechanic requires several technical and professional attributes. Candidates residing in the state of Louisiana can pursue this profession after securing admission to a suitable training program.

The following guide highlights notable institutions from which to obtain a robust education while also exploring other important considerations, including preparatory and licensing requirements. Readers will also be able to understand the annual average salary earned by wind turbine mechanics in Louisiana.

How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician in Louisiana

The following steps are needed to become a wind turbine mechanic in Louisiana.

Fundamental Requirements

The primary educational requirement to become a wind turbine mechanic in Louisiana is a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. The ability to work at heights, basic communication skills, attention to detail, and mechanical skills are also crucial for individuals interested in the field.

Educational Routes

The majority of wind turbine mechanics in Louisiana begin their careers either by completing a technical program at an academic institution or receiving training “on the job”.

• Academic Institutions - Attending a technical school or community college enables prospective wind turbine mechanics to launch their careers with either a post-secondary certificate or an associate’s degree. Of course, this can offer a significant edge over competitors.

Another important aspect of attending a technical school is the foundational coursework that provides candidates with a solid, basic understanding of the skills they will be practicing. These programs delve in-depth into topics ranging from logic control systems, hydraulic systems, and mechanical systems to tower climbing, safety resources, first aid, and more.

• On-the-Job Training - Candidates may take an “on-the-job” approach to their wind turbine mechanic education. In this approach, trainees work under the guidance of experienced professionals, acquiring the necessary skills as they work.

Companies, as well as trade unions and professional organizations, provide such opportunities.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a solar technician in Louisiana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

As a wind turbine mechanic in the state of Louisiana, there are no laws that require one to pursue state licensing or register with a professional board to start practicing legally. Candidates are also free to secure job placement without becoming certified.

However, certification offers a range of professional benefits that make it highly desirable. Among these are opportunities for networking and continuing education, as well as the possibility of being favored in job placement over those who are not certified.

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners has several professional credentials for anyone working in renewable energy technology. Candidates may also consider the credentials offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

In addition, certifications such as the OSHA 30-Hour Training, Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Basic Safety Training (BST), and GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT) are increasingly recognized by employers. These credentials provide essential safety training and technical competence that are especially important when working on utility-scale or international wind energy projects.

Top Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Louisiana

The programs below are suitable for aspiring wind turbine mechanics in Louisiana.

Explore wind turbine technician schools in Louisiana by city:

• Wind turbine technician schools in New Orleans

Salary & Career Outlook

Wind turbine mechanics in Louisiana make an annual average salary of $46,373. This figure was obtained from a survey carried out by ZipRecruiter and reflects the annual average salary on a national scale as well.

However, it is possible for a wind turbine mechanic in Louisiana just starting their career to begin among the bottom 10%. In this case, they can make an annual average salary of $29,074.

It is also possible for professionals to fall among the top 10%. In this bracket, the annual average salary to expect is $67,554.

Professionals typically move from a lower bracket to a higher one by optimizing experience, location, credentials, and other factors that can play a role. Focusing on location, Lake Charles has the highest average salary returns for wind turbine mechanics in Louisiana, thanks to an annual average salary of $53,595.

Paulina and Houma are also among the top destinations, with annual average salaries of $53,582 and $ 52,428, respectively.