Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Huntington, New York

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Huntington, New York

Wind energy is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of New York’s clean energy transition, and the demand for skilled wind turbine technicians is at an all-time high. A wind turbine technician is a highly trained professional responsible for the inspection, maintenance, repair, and operation of wind turbines—both onshore and offshore. This career combines hands-on technical work with a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

For those in Huntington, New York, there are several pathways to becoming a wind turbine technician, including apprenticeships, technical certificates, and specialized degree programs. The state and local community colleges, workforce boards, and training centers offer a range of educational options designed to meet the growing need for qualified technicians in the wind energy sector.

About Huntington, New York

Huntington, located in Suffolk County on Long Island, is known for its picturesque harbor, vibrant downtown, and historic neighborhoods such as Cold Spring Harbor and Greenlawn. As part of the New York metropolitan region, Huntington provides access to a robust job market and proximity to major renewable energy projects. Learn more about the community at the Town of Huntington official website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Huntington, New York

While Huntington itself does not currently host a dedicated wind turbine technician training program, residents have access to several highly regarded programs in Suffolk County and across Long Island. Below are three leading options within commuting distance:

1. Suffolk County Community College – Renewable Energy/STEM Center (Brentwood, NY, ~20 miles from Huntington)

  • Program: Renewable Energy Programs with wind energy training components
  • Description: Suffolk County Community College’s Renewable Energy/STEM Center offers state-of-the-art labs and classrooms for training in wind, solar, and other green power technologies. The facility is “net zero,” demonstrating sustainable practices, and provides hands-on learning with actual wind turbine equipment. The college partners with local employers to ensure workforce alignment and offers pathways to further education or direct entry into the wind energy workforce.
  • Learn more about the Renewable Energy/STEM Center

2. Farmingdale State College – Wind Turbine Technology Certificate (Farmingdale, NY, ~15 miles from Huntington)

  • Program: Wind Turbine Technology Certificate (32 credits) and Wind Energy Technology Microcredential
  • Description: Farmingdale’s program prepares students for entry-level positions in wind energy technology. The curriculum covers data communications, electrical circuits, wind turbine mechanics, and safety protocols. Training incorporates hands-on experience, trainers, and virtual reality simulations. Credits can be applied toward further degrees in engineering or facility management.
  • Explore the Wind Turbine Technology Certificate

3. National Offshore Wind Training Center (NOWTC) (Brentwood, NY, ~20 miles from Huntington)

  • Program: GWO Basic Safety Training (BST), Advanced Safety Training, API Rigging, and more
  • Description: The NOWTC, hosted at Suffolk County Community College’s Grant Campus, provides Global Wind Organization (GWO)–certified safety and technical training specifically for offshore wind. Courses include sea survival, working at heights, fire awareness, and first aid. NOWTC is a collaborative venture with industry and labor partners, ensuring curriculum meets international standards.
  • Discover NOWTC’s programs

Additional Programs Nearby:

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Huntington, NY

Wind energy employers are expanding rapidly across Long Island, offering compelling opportunities for trained technicians. While Huntington does not host large wind facilities, several major companies and projects are within Suffolk County and the broader region:

  • Sunrise Wind (Orsted, operations hub in Brookhaven, NY):

    • The largest offshore wind project in New York, Sunrise Wind is creating hundreds of permanent and construction jobs in the region, including technician roles. Orsted’s Northeast Operations and Maintenance Hub will support turbine maintenance and training.
    • Orsted Careers

  • National Grid and PSEG Long Island (Melville and Hicksville, NY):

  • National Offshore Wind Training Center (Brentwood, NY):

    • Acts as a pipeline connecting trainees with local, national, and international wind energy employers.
    • NOWTC Information

  • United Way of Long Island Power Up! (Deer Park, NY):

    • Connects graduates with employers such as National Grid, PSEG Long Island, and Wallace Eannace for job placement in wind and renewable energy.
    • Power Up! Program

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Most wind turbine technician programs in New York require:

  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED/equivalency
  • Age Requirement: 18 years or older
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb ladders 30+ feet, lift heavy equipment, and work at heights; weight limit (often <264 pounds) for safety harnesses
  • Background Check: Required for most programs and employers
  • Medical Clearance: Strongly recommended, especially for GWO training, which is physically demanding
  • Safety Training: Some programs require completion of OSHA 10-hour General Industry certification as part of the curriculum
  • Work Preparedness: Some programs prioritize individuals who have completed workforce readiness programs (e.g., BOCES, Youthbuild, AmeriCorps)

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

While New York State does not mandate licensure for wind turbine technicians, industry-recognized certifications are highly valued and often required by employers:

  • Global Wind Organization (GWO) Certification: The international standard for safety and technical training in wind energy, especially for offshore work. GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) includes first aid, working at heights, sea survival, fire awareness, and manual handling.

  • OSHA Certification: The OSHA 10-hour General Industry card is included in many training programs and required by most employers.

  • NCCER Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician Curriculum: Recognized by many employers and included in some community college and technical training programs.

  • National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) WTT-I Certification: For those seeking advanced credentials in tower safety and wind turbine operations.

These certifications not only enhance employability but also ensure that technicians are equipped with the skills to work safely in demanding environments.

Get Started Today

The pathway to becoming a wind turbine technician in Huntington, New York, is accessible and filled with opportunity. With New York’s ambitious renewable energy goals and significant investments in workforce development, now is an excellent time to enter this high-growth field. Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a career changer, or an experienced tradesperson, local programs and resources are ready to help you gain the skills and certifications needed for a rewarding career in wind energy.

Take the next step by reaching out to a local school or training center to learn more about enrollment, program requirements, and career support services. The future of clean energy in New York is bright—start your journey toward becoming a wind turbine technician today.

For more information on the national outlook for wind turbine technicians, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.