Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Des Moines, Iowa

Wind energy is a driving force in Iowa’s clean energy economy, and Des Moines is at the heart of this growing industry. If you are considering a career as a wind turbine technician, Des Moines, Iowa, offers a range of education and training opportunities designed to prepare you for this exciting, high-demand field. Wind turbine technicians, also known as wind techs, install, maintain, and repair wind turbines—giant machines that harness wind power to generate electricity.

There are several education paths to become a wind turbine technician, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and specialized workforce academies. Each program combines classroom instruction with hands-on technical training, emphasizing safety and industry standards. This guide will walk you through local training options, employment opportunities, prerequisites, and certification pathways specific to Des Moines and the greater Iowa region.

About Des Moines

Des Moines is the capital and most populous city in Iowa, located in Polk County in the heart of the state. Known for its vibrant downtown, historic East Village, and thriving business sector, Des Moines is a hub for government, finance, and renewable energy initiatives. The city is home to major employers, educational institutions, and a variety of neighborhoods including Beaverdale, Sherman Hill, and South of Grand. Learn more about the city on the official Des Moines website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines and the surrounding region offer several reputable training programs for aspiring wind turbine technicians. Below are the most accessible options:

1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) – Wind Turbine Technician Certificate & Renewable Energy Technology

  • Location: Multiple campuses, including Ankeny (just north of downtown), Urban Campus (central Des Moines), and West Des Moines.
  • Program: DMACC’s Wind Turbine Technician Certificate program provides hands-on training in wind turbine maintenance, safety, and electrical systems. The program is part of the Engineering & Manufacturing Pathway and uses a competency-based education model. DMACC also offers a broader Renewable Energy Technology program.
  • Duration & Cost: The certificate can be completed in about one year, with a total estimated cost of $4,053.
  • Contact: DMACC Wind Turbine Technician Certificate | Phone: 800-362-2127

2. Iowa Lakes Community College – Wind Energy & Turbine Technician Diploma

  • Location: Estherville, IA (approximately 150 miles northwest of Des Moines)
  • Program: The Wind Energy & Turbine Technician Diploma is a three-term program that prepares students for entry-level positions. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training, safety, and electrical and mechanical systems. Students train on a full-scale, operational wind turbine, gaining invaluable real-world experience.
  • Certifications: Includes OSHA 10, GWO Basic Safety Training, First Aid/AED, and more.
  • Contact: Iowa Lakes Wind Energy & Turbine Technician | Phone: 712-362-2604

3. North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) – Qualified Wind Technician Workforce Academy

  • Location: Mason City, IA (about 115 miles north of Des Moines)
  • Program: NIACC’s Qualified Wind Technician Workforce Academy is a non-credit program focused on rapid workforce entry. The curriculum covers OSHA 10, GWO Basic Safety Training, and NFPA 70E electrical safety.
  • Contact: NIACC Skilled Trades | Phone: 641-422-4358

Note: While DMACC offers wind-specific training directly in the Des Moines metro, Iowa Lakes and NIACC provide strong alternatives within driving distance, each with specialized facilities and industry partnerships.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines’ strategic location places it near major wind farms and energy employers that support Iowa’s wind industry. Key organizations in and around the city include:

MidAmerican Energy

  • Location: Headquarters in Des Moines; wind projects statewide
  • Description: MidAmerican Energy is Iowa’s largest wind energy producer, operating over 3,400 wind turbines and generating enough electricity to power over 2.4 million homes. The company invests heavily in renewable energy and hires wind turbine technicians for maintenance and operations roles.
  • Employment: MidAmerican Energy Careers

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy

  • Location: Manufacturing in Fort Madison, IA; service roles across Iowa
  • Description: Siemens Gamesa is a leading manufacturer and servicer of wind turbines. The company employs technicians for assembly, installation, and field service positions throughout Iowa.
  • Employment: Siemens Gamesa Careers

TPI Composites

  • Location: Newton, IA (about 35 miles east of Des Moines)
  • Description: TPI Composites manufactures wind turbine blades and employs technicians in manufacturing and maintenance roles. Newton is easily accessible from Des Moines, offering additional job opportunities.
  • Employment: TPI Composites Careers

These organizations, along with numerous wind farms in central and western Iowa, provide a strong job market for trained wind turbine technicians. Many entry-level positions are located in rural communities near wind installations, while service and operations roles are based in Des Moines and other urban centers.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a wind turbine technician program, applicants should be aware of the following typical prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED required for most programs.
  • Minimum Age: Generally 18 years or older.
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb tall towers (up to 300 feet), work at heights, and meet weight restrictions (typically 265 pounds or less) due to safety harness limits.
  • Background Check: Some programs or employers may require a criminal background check.
  • Medical Clearance: Good cardiovascular health and no severe fear of heights are essential.
  • Entrance Exams: Some programs may require placement tests in math or reading.

Meeting these requirements is crucial for both safety and success in training and on the job.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

Certification can significantly enhance a wind turbine technician’s career prospects. The most recognized industry certifications include:

Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Certification

  • Overview: GWO certification is the international standard for wind technician safety and technical training.
  • Courses: Basic Safety Training (BST) includes Fire Awareness, First Aid, Manual Handling, and Working at Heights. Advanced options include Basic Technical Training (BTT) and Advanced Rescue Training (ART).
  • Providers: Iowa Lakes Community College and Safety Technology USA offer GWO training in Iowa. Learn more at the Global Wind Organisation website.

OSHA 10-Hour Training

  • Overview: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) 10-hour training is a required component in most programs, covering workplace hazards, fall protection, and electrical safety.
  • More Info: Visit the OSHA website.

NFPA 70E Electrical Safety

  • Overview: NFPA 70E certification covers electrical safety standards, particularly important for technicians working with high-voltage systems.
  • Learn More: Visit the National Fire Protection Association.

Additional Certifications

  • First Aid/CPR/AED: Standard in most training programs.
  • Specializations: Some programs offer high-angle rescue, hydraulic systems, and blade repair training.

Certification is often voluntary but is highly recommended (and sometimes required by employers) for career advancement.

Get Started Today

A career as a wind turbine technician in Des Moines, Iowa, offers excellent job prospects, strong wages, and the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future. With quality training programs, recognized certifications, and a robust job market, now is the time to take the first step. Contact a local school to learn more about program start dates, application requirements, and financial aid opportunities. Your path to a rewarding, impactful career in wind energy begins with the right education and training.

For more information about job growth and salary expectations, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Wind Turbine Technicians page.