Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Wichita, Kansas

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Wichita, Kansas

Wind energy has become a cornerstone of Kansas’s power generation—and with it, the demand for skilled wind turbine technicians is soaring. As a wind turbine technician, you will maintain, repair, and inspect wind turbines to ensure reliable operation of these complex systems. This career blends mechanical, electrical, and safety expertise, offering rewarding, hands-on work at the forefront of renewable energy.

There are several educational paths to become a wind turbine technician in Wichita, Kansas. Options range from certificate programs and associate degrees at technical colleges to specialized industry certifications. This guide explores local training programs, prerequisites, certification options, and employment opportunities to help you launch a successful career in wind energy.

About Wichita, Kansas

Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and serves as a regional hub for industry, education, and innovation. Known as the “Air Capital of the World,” Wichita is recognized for its aviation manufacturing but is quickly gaining prominence within the renewable energy sector. The city is home to major employers, leading colleges, and is centrally located for access to wind farms across Kansas. To learn more about the city, visit the official Wichita website.

Neighborhoods such as Downtown, College Hill, and Delano are popular both for living and for proximity to educational institutions and workforce centers.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Wichita, Kansas

While Wichita itself does not currently host a dedicated wind turbine technician program, several accredited programs are available within a reasonable distance. These institutions offer robust curricula tailored to the needs of the wind energy industry.

1. Cowley College – Wind Energy Technology

Location: Arkansas City, KS (approx. 55 miles south of Wichita)
Program Info: The Cowley College Wind Energy Technology program prepares students for immediate entry into the wind industry. Courses cover wind science, mechanical and electrical systems, rescue operations, and programmable logic controllers (PLC). The program is led by experienced industry professionals and offers both spring and summer sessions.
Highlights: Hands-on training, industry-aligned curriculum, short-term certificate options.

2. Cloud County Community College – Wind Energy Technology

Location: Concordia, KS (approx. 200 miles northwest of Wichita)
Program Info: Cloud County Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Wind Energy Technology and a one-year Wind Energy Technician Certificate. The curriculum includes foundational electrical and mechanical training, along with fieldwork at the college’s own wind farm.
Highlights: Extensive hands-on experience, field training, and job placement support.

3. Colby Community College – Wind Technical Certificate

Location: Colby, KS (approx. 260 miles northwest of Wichita)
Program Info: Colby Community College’s Wind Technical Certificate is designed for rapid entry into the field. The program can be completed online in two semesters, with optional in-person boot camps for hands-on learning.
Highlights: Flexible online courses, hands-on boot camps, dual credit for high school students.

Note: For those seeking specialized short-term certification, the Pinnacle Career Institute offers Global Wind Organisation (GWO) certified training in Kansas City, which may be suitable for those willing to travel or seeking additional credentials.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Wichita

Wichita serves as a strategic base for wind energy employment, given its proximity to numerous wind farms and renewable energy employers in Kansas. While large-scale wind farms are located primarily in western and central Kansas, several key organizations and resources are based in or near Wichita:

  • Wichita Workforce Center
    Wichita Workforce Center connects job seekers with regional employers in the wind energy sector and beyond. Located at 2021 N Amidon, Suite 1100, the center offers career counseling, job search assistance, and training resources.

  • Evergy
    Evergy is a major regional utility with renewable energy operations and maintenance positions. While their wind farms are not directly in Wichita, they hire technicians to support wind operations across Kansas.

  • Wichita State University (WSU) – College of Engineering
    WSU’s College of Engineering conducts research on wind energy systems and collaborates with industry partners, providing advanced opportunities for those seeking research or technical roles.

Additional employment opportunities can be found with companies such as Renewable Concepts, Pearce Services, Siemens Energy, and EDP Renewables North America, all of whom operate wind energy projects across Kansas. Wichita’s strong transportation links make commuting or relocating for fieldwork feasible.

For more information on job prospects and projected growth, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Admission requirements for wind turbine technician programs in Kansas typically include:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Minimum Age: Usually 18 years or older
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb towers (up to 300 feet), lift heavy equipment, and work at heights and in varying weather conditions
  • Background Checks: Some programs or employers may require background screening and drug testing
  • Entrance Exams: Basic math, reading, or mechanical aptitude assessments may be required
  • Safety Clearances: Applicants should be comfortable with rigorous safety protocols and may need to complete a physical exam

Some programs, such as Colby Community College’s Wind Technical Certificate, also offer dual credit opportunities for high school students.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

Certification is not always mandatory but is highly recommended and often preferred by employers. Recognized certifications include:

  • Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Certification:
    GWO sets international standards for safety and technical training. GWO Basic Safety Training is widely recognized and often required by major wind energy employers. Accredited training providers include the Global Wind Organisation and Pinnacle Career Institute.

  • OSHA Training:
    OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certifications are valued for workplace safety in wind energy environments. Many employers require these credentials.

  • Specialized Certifications:

    • Tower Climbing and Rescue
    • First Aid/CPR
    • NFPA 70E (Electrical Safety)
    • Manufacturer-specific or employer-provided training

  • Additional Credentials:
    The National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also offer relevant certifications.

Certification renewal is often required every few years to ensure up-to-date safety and technical knowledge.

Get Started Today

In Wichita, Kansas, aspiring wind turbine technicians are well-positioned to take advantage of Kansas’s robust wind energy industry and educational resources. Whether you’re seeking a hands-on technical certificate or a more extensive associate’s degree, the training options listed above will prepare you for a high-demand, rewarding career. Research the programs that best fit your goals, review their prerequisites, and reach out to schools for more details. Take that first step toward your future by contacting a school today through the program information pages.