Delta is educating the next generation of technicians who will service 250 to 300 foot tall wind turbines with blades the size of semi-trucks. Beginning Fall semester, Delta is offering a new Alternative Energy Wind Turbine Technology program. Graduates of this program will be prepared for a rewarding and profitable career in this growing field.
“The area of sustainability and alternative energy is a hot topic,” says Steve Rosin, Chair of Delta’s Technical, Trades & Manufacturing Division. “What is exciting about Delta’s program is that, with the ever-changing alternative energy industry, students will be able to keep abreast of these changes during their training and be ready for the workforce immediately after graduating.
“Wind is one more source of energy in the long list of energy resources, but the economic potential is great for good-paying, highly skilled jobs in areas that have traditionally not seen these types of employment opportunities.”
Currently, there are approximately ten colleges in the country offering a two-year training program in wind technology.
A Strong Job Outlook
The large number of wind turbines being installed is generating a shortage of qualified wind energy technicians. Delta’s curriculum includes instruction in wind turbine technology, turbine maintenance, tower safety and wind economics. Students in the program will earn an associate degree in Wind Turbine Technology, with an emphasis on mechanical and electrical courses.
The average starting annual salary for a typical wind technician job is between $35,000 and $40,000.
“Overall, the wind industry itself is very interested in developing further talent,” Rosen explained. “The jobs are good paying, with a lot of potential.” In the state of Michigan, there is one commercial wind farm located near Elkton and another will soon be developed near Ubly. To meet a new state renewable energy standard, there is potential for building hundreds more turbines.
The Work Environment
The role of a wind technician is similar to the work of an auto mechanic or industrial electrician, with the exception that the workspace is confined and is usually located approximately 250 to 300 feet in the air. Although most of the work will involve working at a high elevation, technicians are properly secured with safety equipment including safety harnesses.
For more information on the new program, contact Academic Advising at 989-686-9437 or the Technical Trades and Manufacturing Division at 989-686-9258.