Wind Turbine Technician Schools in New Mexico

Most of a wind turbine technician’s job will be geared towards working on the nacelle of a wind turbine. However, professionals in the field must have a comprehensive understanding of every single part that makes up a wind turbine system.

Residents of New Mexico can launch a career as a wind turbine technician and do so on a strong foundation by following the recommendations in the guide below. These include detailed analysis of basic educational requirements, advanced education possibilities, employment and career growth strategies, licensing and certification requirements, among others.

The guide also provides readers with key figures to keep in mind regarding the annual average earnings of wind turbine technicians in New Mexico.

How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician in New Mexico

Below are the most important requirements needed to become a wind turbine technician in New Mexico.

Fulfilling the Basic Requirements

The basic requirements to become a wind turbine technician in the state of New Mexico include being physically fit and having strong stamina. A high school diploma or a GED may also be required for training programs and certain employment opportunities.

Other foundational skills that provide candidates with an edge include problem-solving, critical thinking, effective communication, and attention to detail.

Completing a Wind Technology Program

Proper education is crucial for prospective wind turbine technicians, and many turn to community colleges and technical schools for the best educational experience. These institutions are recognized for offering candidates a solid foundation in the field through their classroom coursework.

The best ones also allow candidates to practice with actual equipment, including wind turbines that are used on campus. Topics covered by wind turbine technology training programs include safety principles, Tower climbing, hydraulic systems, mechanical systems, and more.

Real-World Experience

Real-world experience as an aspiring wind turbine technician equips candidates with the confidence and practical skills necessary to succeed in a work environment. Candidates may take advantage of entry-level positions and apprenticeships to achieve this goal.

These can be completed in combination with an academic program or used as a replacement for academic training entirely.

Employment & Career Advancement

Power generation companies and equipment manufacturers employ wind turbine technicians. They can also work with research initiatives, both government and private, or start their own installation and maintenance outfits.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

In New Mexico, newly trained wind turbine technicians are not required to obtain a professional license to begin their careers. The state has no laws mandating licensing for professionals in this field, and certification is also optional.

However, candidates pursue certification on a personal level thanks to the professional benefits that can be gained from doing so. The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are both recognized for their credentials that can enhance the skills of a wind turbine technician. The Global Wind Organisation (GWO) is also highly regarded, offering safety-focused training that employers widely prefer in the wind energy industry.

Professionals in New Mexico may also pursue certification offered by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.

Top Wind Turbine Technician Schools in New Mexico

Below are some institutions with respected wind turbine technician programs for candidates in New Mexico.

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Salary & Career Outlook

The following locations are currently the most favorable for wind turbine technicians in New Mexico, in terms of yearly returns.

• Roswell, with an average salary of $10 per hour, $76,511;
• Maljamar, with an annual average salary of $76,068; and
• Encino, with an annual average salary of $75,055.

The same data can be organized in terms of general factors, rather than focusing solely on a single factor. In this case, the most prominent numbers to keep in mind, according to Indeed, include:

• an annual average salary of $90,013 for wind turbine technicians in the top 10%;
• an annual average salary of $65,355 for those in the median category; and
• An annual average salary of $47,452 for professionals in the bottom 10%.

The factors that typically influence these numbers, aside from location, include experience level, specific employers, professional credentials, and others. In addition to base pay, many employers in New Mexico also provide per diem compensation to cover meals, lodging, and travel on remote assignments, which can substantially increase total earnings.