Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Lincoln, Nebraska

Wind energy is powering the future of Nebraska, and Lincoln sits at the heart of this transformation. For those interested in a hands-on, high-demand career, becoming a wind turbine technician offers a direct path into the renewable energy industry. Wind turbine technicians, sometimes called “wind techs,” are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines that generate clean electricity for homes and businesses. As the demand for wind energy grows, so does the need for trained technicians, making this an excellent career option for individuals in Lincoln and across Nebraska.

There are several educational routes to becoming a wind turbine technician, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and specialized industry certifications. Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a career changer, or someone seeking a new professional challenge, Lincoln and the surrounding region offer accessible training options to prepare you for success in this field.

About Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln, the capital of Nebraska, is a thriving city known for its welcoming community and robust economic opportunities. As home to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a dynamic downtown, Lincoln attracts students and professionals alike. The city features a blend of historic neighborhoods such as the Haymarket District, College View, and South Salt Creek.

Lincoln’s strategic location in Lancaster County places it within the Greater Lincoln Workforce Development Area, positioning it as a hub for energy, technology, and skilled trades in the state. For more details about the city, visit the official City of Lincoln website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska

While Lincoln itself does not have a dedicated wind turbine technician program within city limits, several high-quality options are available within a reasonable distance. These programs offer hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials that can launch your career in wind energy.

1. Southeast Community College (SCC) – Milford Campus

Location: Milford, NE (Approximately 25 miles west of Lincoln)

  • Program: Energy Generation Operations
  • Overview: SCC’s program prepares students for careers in energy generation, including wind turbine maintenance and operations. The curriculum covers energy conversion, industry safety, troubleshooting, and control room operations using advanced simulators. Options include a 16-credit certificate, a 30-credit diploma, and a 60-credit Associate of Applied Science degree. Courses blend classroom learning with hands-on labs, and the full degree can be completed in approximately two years.
  • Tuition: $1,968–$7,500 (varies by program and residency)
  • Contact: 402-761-2131

2. Northeast Community College – Wind Energy Program

Location: Norfolk, NE (Approximately 110 miles north of Lincoln)

  • Program: Wind Energy
  • Overview: Recognized as one of the most comprehensive wind energy programs in Nebraska, Northeast offers both a one-year diploma and a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The curriculum includes electrical systems, safety, mechanical systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and a mandatory summer internship at a wind farm. The campus boasts a dedicated Wind Energy Lab and a fully operational wind turbine for real-world training.
  • Tuition: See tuition details
  • Contact: 402-844-7575

3. Central Community College – Energy Technology Program

Location: Hastings, NE (Approximately 90 miles southwest of Lincoln)

  • Program: Energy Technology
  • Overview: Central’s Energy Technology program covers wind and solar power system design, maintenance, and repair. Students benefit from a partnership with Bluestem Energy Solutions, which provides access to a full-scale 1.7-megawatt wind turbine for hands-on training. The college offers certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees to fit different career goals and schedules.
  • Tuition: $115–$164 per credit hour
  • Contact: 402-461-2428

Note: While all three programs are outside Lincoln city limits, they are the closest and most relevant options for aspiring wind turbine technicians in the Lincoln area. Each school offers robust hands-on training and strong connections to Nebraska’s wind energy employers.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Lincoln

Lincoln and the surrounding region offer a growing market for wind turbine technicians, supported by major wind farms and energy companies. Here are some key employers and resources:

Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD)

  • Website: NPPD Careers
  • Overview: NPPD operates and maintains multiple wind energy facilities statewide and employs technicians for field operations, maintenance, and project support. The district’s facilities serve Lincoln and much of Southeast Nebraska.

NextEra Energy Resources

  • Website: NextEra Energy Resources Careers
  • Overview: As one of the largest wind energy operators in Nebraska, NextEra maintains several wind farms and often recruits certified wind technicians for installation and maintenance roles.

American Job Center – Lincoln

  • Website: Lincoln American Job Center
  • Overview: The American Job Center in Lincoln provides job placement, career coaching, and training connections for those seeking wind energy employment. The center hosts regular job fairs and maintains updated listings for wind energy and technician positions across the region.

Other Key Employers

  • Vestas, Tetra Tech, Clearway Energy, GEV Wind Power, Sky Climber Renewables, EDF Renewables
  • These companies frequently post technician openings in Lincoln and across Nebraska. Many offer on-the-job training and support for continuing education and certification.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

While program requirements can vary, most wind turbine technician programs in Nebraska (and nationally) share the following prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED required.
  • Age: Minimum age is typically 18 years.
  • Physical Fitness: Candidates should be physically able to climb tall towers, work at heights exceeding 200 feet, and lift heavy tools or equipment. Some programs or employers may require a medical exam or fitness test.
  • Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is often required, as technicians frequently travel between job sites.
  • Background Check: Most employers and some training programs require criminal background checks due to the safety-sensitive nature of the work.
  • Basic Math/Science Skills: Strong math and science foundations are recommended for success in technical coursework.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

While Nebraska does not require state licensing for wind turbine technicians, earning industry-recognized certifications can significantly boost employability and career advancement. The most common certifications include:

Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Certification

  • Details: GWO Basic Safety Training is a global standard for wind technician safety, covering working at heights, fire awareness, manual handling, and first aid.
  • Why it matters: Many major employers require GWO certification as a hiring prerequisite.
  • Learn more: GWO Certification

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Training

  • Details: OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry Training covers workplace safety, hazard recognition, and fall protection.
  • Why it matters: OSHA training is required by most wind energy employers and is essential for site safety.

CPR and First Aid Certification

  • Details: Required for technicians working in isolated or remote locations.

National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3)

  • Details: Some colleges offer NC3 credentials as part of their curriculum, providing practical, industry-valued skills.

National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI)

  • Details: NOCTI certifications assess workplace readiness and technical competence for entry-level technicians.
  • Learn more: NOCTI

Certification is typically voluntary but is strongly recommended and often expected by leading employers in the wind energy sector.

Get Started Today

The future of wind energy in Nebraska is bright, and trained wind turbine technicians are in high demand. Lincoln and the surrounding region offer excellent educational and career pathways for those ready to take on this challenge. With strong job growth projections, competitive wages, and the chance to make a positive impact on the environment, now is the perfect time to begin your journey.

Explore your training options, reach out to local schools, and take the first step toward an exciting career in wind energy. Contact a program today and start building your future as a wind turbine technician.

Explore more about national job outlooks for wind turbine technicians at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.