Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Aurora, Colorado

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Aurora, Colorado

Interest in wind energy careers continues to surge as Colorado solidifies its status as a renewable energy leader. For those in Aurora, Colorado, the pathway to becoming a wind turbine technician is especially promising thanks to robust local resources, regional training programs, and a thriving wind industry. Wind turbine technicians, often called “windtechs,” are skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair wind turbines, ensuring these complex systems operate safely and efficiently to produce clean energy.

There are several educational paths to enter this field. Most aspiring technicians complete a specialized certificate or associate degree program at a technical school or community college. These programs blend classroom instruction with hands-on training, preparing graduates for fieldwork and industry certifications. Some may enter through apprenticeships or workforce development initiatives that provide on-the-job experience. Regardless of the route, wind turbine technicians in Aurora benefit from a supportive ecosystem of training providers and employers dedicated to advancing Colorado’s clean energy workforce.

About Aurora, Colorado

Aurora is Colorado’s third-largest city, positioned just east of Denver and spanning Arapahoe, Adams, and Douglas counties. Known for its diverse neighborhoods such as Sable Ridge, Meadow Hills, and Saddle Rock, Aurora offers access to major highways, a vibrant arts scene, and numerous parks and recreational sites. The city is home to the City of Aurora official website, which provides extensive information on city services, events, and resources.

Aurora’s proximity to Denver and the state’s wind energy infrastructure makes it an ideal location for those pursuing careers in renewable energy. The region’s growth in clean energy jobs, combined with local workforce centers and educational institutions, equips residents with the tools needed to succeed as wind turbine technicians.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Aurora, Colorado

While Aurora itself does not currently host a dedicated wind turbine technician program, residents have access to several highly reputable programs in the greater Denver area and across Colorado. These options ensure that students receive the necessary education and hands-on experience for certification and employment.

Redstone College – Broomfield, CO (Approx. 25 miles northwest of Aurora)

  • Program: Wind Energy Technology
  • Description: Redstone College is a leader in wind energy education, offering a comprehensive 15-month Associate of Occupational Studies degree. The curriculum covers electronics, turbine systems, industrial controls, safety, and troubleshooting. Students receive hands-on training with industry-grade equipment, including a Vestas V27 nacelle and a 35-foot climb safety tower. The program emphasizes practical skills, GWO safety certification, and boasts a 95% job placement rate for graduates. Tuition ranges from $16,300 to $16,870.

Northeastern Junior College – Sterling, CO (Approx. 120 miles northeast of Aurora)

  • Program: Wind & Industrial Technology
  • Description: Northeastern Junior College offers both certificate and associate degree options focused on wind and industrial technology. The program is known for its strong industry partnerships, regularly updating its curriculum to match employer needs. Students gain OSHA and CPA certifications as part of their training. Tuition is notably affordable, ranging from $5,345 to $7,691.

Pueblo Community College – Pueblo, CO (Approx. 115 miles south of Aurora)

  • Program: Industrial Technology Maintenance & Solar Photovoltaic Installer Certificate
  • Description: While Pueblo Community College’s programs are broader in scope, they provide foundational training in industrial maintenance, electrical systems, and renewable energy applications. The Solar Photovoltaic Installer Certificate is ideal for those interested in cross-training for wind and solar roles.

Additional Local Resources

  • Arapahoe/Douglas Works! (Workforce Center Aurora): Located at 15400 E. 14th Place, Aurora, this center offers free career counseling, job placement assistance, and referral to wind energy training programs. It is a key hub for workforce development in the region.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Aurora

Aurora and the surrounding region are home to several major employers and facilities in the wind energy sector, providing strong career prospects for trained technicians.

Vestas – Brighton & Windsor, CO

  • Vestas Careers
  • Facilities: Vestas operates a Nacelles Factory in Brighton (approx. 20 miles north of Aurora) and a Blades Factory in Windsor (approx. 65 miles north). These state-of-the-art facilities support the manufacturing and maintenance of wind turbine components for installations across North America.
  • Employment: Vestas offers positions for production assemblers, maintenance technicians, and field service technicians. The company invests heavily in employee training and advancement.

Xcel Energy – Rush Creek Wind Project (Elbert County, southeast of Aurora)

  • Xcel Energy Careers
  • Facility: The Rush Creek Wind Project is a 600 MW installation that significantly increased Colorado’s wind capacity. Located about 60 miles southeast of Aurora, it employs permanent operational and maintenance staff and supports many supply chain jobs.

Local Workforce Centers

These centers connect jobseekers with wind energy jobs throughout the Denver metro area and provide access to training, resume workshops, and job fairs.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Most wind turbine technician programs in Colorado have the following prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
  • Age: Minimum age is generally 18.
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to lift 50 pounds, work at heights, and pass a basic physical exam.
  • Background Check: Some programs and employers require background checks and drug screening.
  • Entrance Exam/Interview: An admissions interview or placement test may be required to assess readiness for technical coursework.
  • Safety Clearances: Willingness to complete OSHA and GWO safety training is essential.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

Certification is a key component of employability in the wind energy sector. While not legally required in Colorado, most employers strongly prefer or mandate recognized industry credentials.

Most Colorado wind technician programs integrate these certifications into their curriculum, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready.

Get Started Today

The wind energy sector in Colorado is expanding rapidly, offering stable, well-compensated, and meaningful careers for those willing to train as wind turbine technicians. With robust local and regional resources, respected training programs, and a strong job market, Aurora residents are well-positioned to take their first step into this high-demand field.

Begin by contacting a local school or workforce center to learn more about program options and how to enroll. Comprehensive support is available to help you succeed at every stage—from training to certification to job placement. Your future in renewable energy starts now.

For more information on national trends and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Wind Turbine Technicians page.