Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Boise, Idaho

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Boise, Idaho

Wind energy is rapidly shaping the future of America’s energy landscape, and Boise, Idaho is poised to play a key role in this transition. As wind farms expand across Idaho, the demand for skilled wind turbine technicians continues to rise. If you are considering a career as a wind turbine technician in Boise, this guide will outline the training pathways, certification requirements, local employment opportunities, and steps you can take to launch a rewarding career in wind energy.

A wind turbine technician, sometimes called a wind tech, is a skilled tradesperson responsible for installing, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines. The job involves a blend of electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems work, often conducted at significant heights. Educational routes into this field include technical diploma or associate degree programs, hands-on apprenticeships, and specialized industry certifications.

About Boise, Idaho

Boise, Idaho is the state capital and largest city, situated along the scenic Boise River in Ada County. Known for its thriving downtown, the Boise River Greenbelt, and the nearby foothills, the city is the economic and cultural heart of the Treasure Valley. Boise’s economy is diverse, with strengths in technology, manufacturing, renewable energy, and education. To learn more about the city and its community resources, visit the official City of Boise website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Boise, Idaho

As of 2024, there are no wind turbine technician programs located directly in Boise. However, several reputable programs are available within Idaho, offering accessible training options for Boise residents. Here are the closest and most relevant schools:

1. College of Southern Idaho (Twin Falls, ID – approx. 130 miles from Boise)

  • Program: Renewable Energy Systems Technology (Associate Degree and Certificate Options)
  • Program Overview: The College of Southern Idaho offers comprehensive training in renewable energy, including wind turbine technology. The curriculum covers electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems, safety protocols, and hands-on lab experience.
  • Notable Courses: Wind Energy Internship, Residential Wind Energy Systems, Data Acquisition and Circuits, Wind Turbine Simulation.
  • Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
  • CSI Renewable Energy Systems Technology Program

2. North Idaho College (Coeur d’Alene, ID – approx. 430 miles from Boise)

  • Program: Power Plant Technology and Energy Systems
  • Program Overview: North Idaho College provides career training in power plant operations, with coursework applicable to wind energy. The program emphasizes electrical and mechanical system skills relevant to turbine maintenance.
  • Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
  • NIC Power Plant Technology

3. Idaho Works – Wind Turbine Technician Apprenticeship (Statewide/Remote)

  • Program: Registered Apprenticeship – Wind Turbine Technician
  • Program Overview: Hosted through the Idaho Department of Labor, this apprenticeship combines classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. The program is administered through a Las Vegas training location but is open to Idaho residents.
  • Program Cost: $16,000 (multiple schedule options available)
  • Idaho Works Apprenticeships

Note: While Boise and Ada County do not currently host a wind technician program, the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls is the closest comprehensive option. Programs in Coeur d’Alene and remote apprenticeships further expand training access.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Boise

Idaho’s wind industry is growing, with several major wind farms and renewable energy employers operating throughout the state. While there are no large-scale operational wind farms located directly within Boise, the region is home to companies and resources supporting wind energy employment:

Idaho Wind Partners (Multiple Locations)

  • Overview: Idaho Wind Partners operates the majority of Idaho’s utility-scale wind farms, including sites such as Burley Butte, Golden Valley, Milner Dam Wind, and Sawtooth Wind.
  • Employment: Positions include wind turbine technician, maintenance supervisor, and related roles.
  • Closest Facility: Sawtooth Wind Farm near Mountain Home, approximately 40 miles southeast of Boise.
  • Idaho Wind Partners (via Idaho Power)

Vestas (Nationwide & Idaho-Based Positions)

  • Overview: Vestas is a global wind turbine manufacturer and service provider with employment opportunities across Idaho, including traveling wind tech positions for regional wind farms.
  • Job Openings: Wind Technician, Service Technician II/III, Composite Blade Technician.
  • Vestas Careers

Siemens Gamesa (Nationwide & Idaho-Based Positions)

  • Overview: Siemens Gamesa is a leader in wind turbine manufacturing and service, often recruiting for field service and maintenance technician roles in the Intermountain West.
  • Siemens Gamesa Careers

Additional job listings can be found through the IdahoWorks job portal, which aggregates openings for wind energy and related technical roles statewide.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a wind turbine technician program in Idaho, applicants should be prepared to meet the following typical prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Age: Minimum age of 18 years.
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to work at heights (often 200 feet or more), lift heavy equipment, work in confined spaces, and pass a physical capability assessment.
  • Academic Preparation: Some programs prefer or require prior coursework in algebra, basic math, or physics.
  • Background Check & Drug Screening: Many programs and employers require background checks and/or drug screening due to the safety-sensitive nature of the work.
  • Valid Driver’s License: Required for fieldwork and travel to job sites.
  • Safety Training: OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour safety training may be required prior to or during enrollment, particularly for those who will be working at heights.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

While Idaho does not require state licensure for wind turbine technicians, professional certification is highly valued by employers and can enhance job prospects. The following organizations provide industry-recognized certifications:

Global Wind Organisation (GWO)

  • About: GWO sets international training standards for wind energy professionals, including modules in Basic Safety Training (BST), Working at Heights, First Aid, Manual Handling, and Fire Awareness.
  • Benefits: GWO certification demonstrates readiness for global employer requirements, boosts safety awareness, and can be a condition of hire for many wind energy companies.
  • Learn more about GWO Certification

American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) / American Clean Power Association (ACP)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

  • About: OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour Construction Safety Training is often required for wind technicians, focusing on workplace safety and hazard prevention.
  • OSHA Training

Certification is typically voluntary but can improve employability and is often required by leading employers and contractors.

Get Started Today

As wind energy continues to transform Idaho’s economy, the need for skilled wind turbine technicians in Boise and beyond will only grow. With competitive salaries, clear advancement opportunities, and a direct role in America’s clean energy future, now is an excellent time to consider this career path. Review training options, gather your prerequisites, and reach out to a school to take the next step toward a rewarding role in the wind energy industry.

For more details about the wind turbine technician job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.