Wind Turbine Technician Schools in West Virginia

Individuals in excellent physical shape, with a passion for working on complex mechanical systems, would be well-suited for a career as a wind turbine technician in West Virginia. Professionals in this field appreciate a straightforward approach to starting their careers, thanks to minimal oversight and stringent requirements.

Interested individuals will find below a comprehensive overview of the steps required to start a career as a wind turbine technician in West Virginia. They will be able to identify the most important considerations for skills acquisition, employment, and career opportunities.

The guide also showcases the best places for comprehensive education, along with relevant figures concerning their possible annual average earnings.

How to Become a Wind Turbine Technician in West Virginia

The following is a step-by-step breakdown of how to become a successful wind turbine technician in West Virginia.

Basic Prerequisites

One of the major prerequisites for becoming a successful wind turbine technician is maintaining good physical health. The profession requires a lot of climbing, standing, and even crawling, necessitating a high level of physical fitness and stamina.

Finally, some training destinations and employers may require a basic educational qualification, such as a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

Academic and Real-World Education

Attending school to become a wind turbine technician is a viable and advisable option. In the state of West Virginia, individuals may complete dedicated wind turbine technology training programs or even programs involving renewable energy.

It is also possible, as an aspiring wind turbine technician, to receive training on the job from an employer or manufacturer willing to provide such an initiative. “On-the-job training” can be available to professionals with some experience, as well as those without any experience.

Pursuing the academic route can be beneficial for several reasons, including the opportunity to earn valuable degrees and certificates. Going through the real-world learning route can also be beneficial, as it helps candidates quickly acclimate to the hands-on demands of the profession.

Job Opportunities, Continuing Education, & Career Growth

A wind turbine technician can work for electrical companies and power generation companies that welcome renewable energy technology. They can also work with equipment manufacturers or research initiatives.

Even for practicing wind turbine technicians, continuing education is necessary for career growth. Certification is also essential for this objective, and we explore the topic further below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a solar technician in West Virginia

Licensure & Certification Requirements

In West Virginia, wind turbine technicians may pursue professional credentials from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and/or the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Certification from either of these organizations is not required, but it can be beneficial for a career boost.

The Global Wind Organization (GWO) and Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) are also highly respected organizations with prominent credentials to consider. Candidates may have to complete dedicated courses and pass a professional examination before they can become certified.

It is possible to work as a wind turbine technician in West Virginia under a registered contractor without obtaining any special state licenses.

Top Wind Turbine Technician Schools in West Virginia

Candidates in West Virginia may attend any of the following programs to launch a successful career as a wind turbine technician in the state.

Explore wind turbine technician schools in West Virginia by city:

• Wind turbine technician schools in Charleston

Salary & Career Outlook

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a wind turbine technician in West Virginia is approximately $41,983. This figure aligns with the national average.

A wind turbine technician in the state who starts their career among the bottom 10% will be able to make an annual average salary of $26,322. They will have the opportunity to increase their yearly earnings by focusing on factors such as their professional credentials, employer, and location within the state.

Experience also plays a key role. Candidates who have made it to the top 10% bracket make an annual average salary of $61,160.

As for the most favorable locations to work as a wind turbine technician in West Virginia for high salaries, they include:

• New Creek, with an annual average salary of $57,409;
• Morgantown, with an annual average salary of $55,797, and
• Martinsburg, with an annual average salary of $55,536.

Many employers also offer per diem payments to cover daily expenses such as meals and lodging, especially for technicians who travel for work or are stationed at remote sites. These payments can significantly supplement a technician’s take-home pay.