The shift toward renewable energy is expected to continue growing in the coming decades. Residents of Portland, Maine, have several options to consider when entering the renewable energy profession, and being a wind turbine mechanic is considered one of the best.
Professionals in this field enjoy competitive salaries, consistent demand, and a straightforward approach to starting their careers. There are also several training institutions in and around Portland with amazing training programs for candidates to consider.
Below, we provide a quick refresher on how to launch a career as a wind turbine mechanic in Portland. We then provide a detailed list of the top training programs for prospective wind turbine mechanics in the city.
How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician in Portland
Starting a career as a wind turbine mechanic in Portland typically requires a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Foundational skills and physical attributes, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, physical strength and stamina, and interpersonal skills, are also essential.
For their education in wind turbine technology, individuals may choose dedicated wind turbine technology programs or programs that deal with renewable energy technology or industrial and mechanical engineering technology.
Some programs can be completed in a year, while others can take between 2 and 4 years to complete. It is also possible to become a successful wind turbine mechanic in Portland by going for on-the-job training.
Ultimately, candidates greatly benefit from certification and can obtain highly regarded credentials from reputable organizations such as the NCCER, NABCEP, and the GWO.
Top Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Portland, Maine
The following are the top training programs for prospective wind turbine mechanics in Portland, Maine.
Northern Maine Community College
Presque Isle, ME Campus Only
Northern Maine Community College offers a Wind Power Technology program that is undoubtedly the most popular among aspiring wind turbine mechanics in the entire state. In fact, the program is so popular that it continues to attract candidates from neighboring states in the region.
Tuition
$96 - $192 per CreditContact
(207) 768-2785
nmccadmissions@mainecc.edu
University of Maine
Orono, ME Campus Only
Aspiring wind turbine technicians in Portland and across the state of Maine can begin their careers through the undergraduate program in Offshore Wind Energy offered by the University of Maine. This program is offered as an extension of the mechanical engineering training program and will allow candidates to choose the offshore wind energy concentration credential as part of their degree.
Tuition
$424 - $1,229 per CreditContact
(207) 581.2217
mcec@maine.edu
Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, ME Campus Only
The Electrical Engineering Technology associate degree program, offered by Southern Maine Community College, is another option candidates can pursue to launch a successful mechanical career in the state. The program teaches key electrical and mechanical principles that candidates typically use in the course of a career as a wind turbine mechanic.
Tuition
$96 - $192 per CreditContact
(207) 741-5800
smccadmissions@mainecc.edu
New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RI Campus Only
Lastly, the nearby New England Institute of Technology offers an Associate of Science in Electrical Technology with a Renewable Energy Systems program for interested individuals across the region. There is a well-rounded program that provides a solid foundation for prospective wind turbine mechanics.
Tuition
$18,540 per YearContact
(401) 739-5000
admissions@neit.edu
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: