The guide below provides a series of resources and information that will undoubtedly be valuable to aspiring wind turbine technicians in Montana. These include a breakdown of how to prepare for theoretical and practical education, the best types of training arrangements to pursue, and employment opportunities.
We also cover the licensing and certification possibilities, specific institutions with prominent programs, and platforms for networking and career opportunities. Readers will also discover the annual average salary category they can expect to find themselves in as wind turbine technicians in Montana, and most importantly, the steps they can take to maximize their possible returns.
How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician in Montana
Residents of Montana can begin successful careers as wind turbine technicians by following the pathway outlined below.
Completing a Training Program
Prospective wind turbine technicians who choose to begin their careers in Montana by completing an academic program can do so by choosing a community college or technical school. Through such a program, they will be able to graduate with a post-secondary certificate and improve their career chances.
Those who don’t mind spending even longer in training can go for an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree program in wind energy technology. This will boost their chances of career success while laying down the groundwork to take on supervisory and advanced roles in the industry.
On-the-Job Training & Work Experience
Developing work experience is just as important for a prospective wind turbine technician as attending an academic program. Those who have properly understood the principles of the profession can practice their skills in work sites and build the right level of confidence for a full-time position.
Individuals can develop this level of proficiency by working in entry-level positions or taking advantage of companies that offer on-the-job training opportunities.
Job Placement
Wind turbine technicians with the right level of training can secure employment with a power generation company that focuses on wind energy. They can also work for research institutes, government initiatives, and manufacturers who make components for wind turbines.
Continuing Education & Career Growth
Renewable energy technology and wind energy technology continue to improve at a rapid pace. This necessitates ongoing education for professionals who wish to stay current with these advancements.
Career growth can also be facilitated as a wind turbine technician through certification. We explore the major pathways to achieve this objective in the next section.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Wind turbine technicians in Montana can choose to become certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. NABCEP is one of the most prominent organizations for professionals in renewable energy, offering credentials that can enhance candidates’ career opportunities and facilitate networking with other professionals.
Candidates may also pursue credentials from other relevant organizations, including the *National Center for Construction Education and Research (*NCCER), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Global Wind Organisation (GWO). OSHA and GWO certifications are especially valued because of their strong emphasis on workplace and industry-specific safety.
As for licensing, the state of Montana does not have specific licensing requirements for wind turbine technicians.
Top Wind Turbine Technician Schools in Montana
All of the entries below offer excellent educational opportunities for future wind turbine technicians in Montana.
Montana State University in Billings
Billing, MT Campus Only
Montana State University in Billings offers a robust Sustainable Energy program that provides foundational and advanced coursework for individuals seeking careers as wind turbine technicians.
Tuition
$4,840 - $10,770 per YearContact
(406) 657-2888
admissions@msubillings.edu
Missoula College
Missoula, MT Campus Only
Missoula College provides a Certificate of Applied Science in Engineering Technology that can serve as a gateway into wind turbine technician roles.
Tuition
$9,188 - $34,312 per SemesterContact
(406) 243-7668
admiss@umontana.edu
Montana State University Northern
Havre, MT Campus Only
Montana State University Northern offers an Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology, which prepares students for careers in power generation, including wind energy.
Tuition
$312 - $933 per CreditContact
(406) 265-3704
admissions@msun.edu
Explore wind turbine technician schools in Montana by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Wind turbine technicians in Montana can earn an annual average salary ranging from $31,207 to $72,509, depending on several key factors, according to ZipRecruiter. These factors can include the professional’s tenure on the job or their specific location within the city.
Those who meet the positive criteria can reach the $72,509 figure, while those who fall on the negative side must start with a figure of around $31,207. They can start working on these factors enough to become part of the median earners, making an annual average salary of $49,775 before ultimately finding their way to the top 10%.
As for prominent locations, Reed Point and Big Timber boast the highest annual average salaries for wind turbine technicians in Montana, with figures of $60,583 and $60,282, respectively. Those who work in Sidney make an annual average salary of $58,955.
In addition to salary, many employers in Montana also provide per diem pay to cover meals, lodging, and travel expenses for technicians working on remote projects, further enhancing total compensation.