Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Minnesota

There are many reasons to consider working as a wind turbine technician 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 technician 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 technician 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 technicians based on key factors.

How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician in Minnesota

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

Academic Training

Academic training is necessary for an aspiring wind turbine technician 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 technicians 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 technicians usually lasts up to one year.

Combining Both Approaches

Even though candidates in Minnesota may start their wind turbine technician 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:

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

Aspiring wind turbine technicians in Minnesota will be pleased to know that they are not required to obtain a license in the state before beginning 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 technicians in the state an avenue to network with fellow professionals; it also gives them extra credibility, which makes employment easier.

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

In addition to these, certifications such as the OSHA 30-Hour Training, Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Basic Safety Training (BST), and GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT) are highly recommended. These safety and skill-focused credentials are valued by employers working on both domestic and international wind projects and can give candidates a distinct advantage in a competitive job market.

Top Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Minnesota

Aspiring wind turbine technicians 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

According to Indeed, in Minnesota, a wind turbine technician in the midpoint range of earners may earn an annual average salary of $55,349, 14% lower than the national average. Further up the salary spectrum are wind turbine technicians in the state, who comprise the top 10%; they earn an annual average salary of $74,029.

Those among the bottom 10% still manage an annual average salary of $41,382. Some criteria determining where a wind turbine technician 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 technician (by salary) are Ivanhoe, where wind turbine technicians earn an annual average salary of $63,319; Blue Earth, where they earn an annual average salary of $60,529; and Saint Paul, with an annual average salary of $55,705.

Additionally, wind technicians may receive per diem compensation for out-of-town travel, which can increase their annual earnings. This allowance varies by employer.