Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Yonkers, New York

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Yonkers, New York

Wind turbine technicians play a pivotal role in New York’s transition to clean energy, maintaining and repairing wind turbines that power homes and businesses across the state. As the wind energy industry continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled technicians—especially in areas like Yonkers, New York. This guide explores how to become a wind turbine technician in Yonkers, covering local training options, employment opportunities, prerequisites, and certification pathways.

Wind turbine technicians, also known as wind techs, are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. Their work ensures the efficient operation of wind farms, both onshore and offshore. There are several educational paths into this profession, including:

  • Associate degree programs in wind energy or turbine technology
  • Vocational certificates in renewable energy technology
  • Specialized training programs focused on offshore wind
  • On-the-job training and apprenticeships

Understanding the available wind turbine technician programs and certification options in Yonkers can help you launch a rewarding career in this dynamic field.

About Yonkers, New York

Yonkers, located just north of New York City along the Hudson River, is Westchester County’s largest city. Known for its historic waterfront, neighborhoods like Getty Square, Ludlow, and Park Hill, and attractions such as Untermyer Gardens and the Hudson River Museum, Yonkers is a hub for both culture and commerce. The city is actively engaged in clean energy initiatives as outlined in the City of Yonkers Climate Action Plan. Yonkers’ strategic location provides residents with access to major training centers and employment opportunities in the greater New York metropolitan area and across Westchester County.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Yonkers, New York

While there are currently no wind turbine technician programs located directly within Yonkers, residents benefit from proximity to several leading programs in the New York metropolitan and upstate regions. These schools offer a range of options for aspiring wind turbine technicians:

1. LaGuardia Community College (Long Island City, NYC—~15 miles from Yonkers)

Wind Turbine Technician Training Program

LaGuardia Community College offers a hands-on Wind Turbine Technician Training Program focused on preparing entry-level workers for the offshore wind industry. The curriculum includes OSHA 10-hour certification, the NCCER Wind Turbine and Maintenance Technician modules, and Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Basic Safety and Technical Training. The program targets New York State residents, including those from disadvantaged communities, veterans, and individuals seeking a career change. Applicants must be at least 18, hold a high school diploma or GED, and meet physical fitness requirements.

2. SUNY Maritime College (Throggs Neck, Bronx—~20 miles from Yonkers)

Offshore Wind Training Programs

SUNY Maritime College is one of the few institutions in the U.S. offering GWO-certified offshore Basic Safety Training. The college provides hybrid courses, with online classroom components and on-campus assessments at its advanced wind training facility. SUNY Maritime’s programs are ideal for those seeking specialized training in offshore wind and safety.

3. Clinton Community College (Plattsburgh, NY—~300 miles from Yonkers)

Wind Energy and Turbine Technology Programs

Clinton Community College offers both an Associate Degree in Wind Energy and Turbine Technology and a Wind Turbine Service Technician Certificate. These programs provide in-depth classroom and lab instruction in electricity, mechanical systems, wind turbine technology, and safety. All certificate credits can be applied toward the associate degree, offering flexibility for students.

Note: For Yonkers residents, LaGuardia Community College and SUNY Maritime College are the most accessible programs, both located within the greater New York City area. Clinton Community College is an option for those able to relocate or seeking a comprehensive associate degree program.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Yonkers

While Yonkers does not currently host major wind energy facilities, its proximity to New York City and Westchester County opens up significant employment avenues. Local and regional employers include:

1. Ørsted (Sunrise Wind Project)

Ørsted U.S. Careers

Ørsted is a global leader in offshore wind, currently developing the Sunrise Wind project off Long Island. The company’s operations and maintenance hub in Brookhaven, NY, will support hundreds of full-time jobs—including wind turbine technicians—over the project’s 30-year lifespan.

2. Equinor (Empire Wind Project)

Equinor Careers

Equinor is developing the Empire Wind project, which will generate clean electricity for about 500,000 homes. Equinor regularly recruits for technician and technical roles at its New York-based facilities.

3. Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board

Westchester-Putnam Career Center Network

The local workforce board connects Yonkers residents to green energy employers and training programs. Their job centers, such as the Yonkers Employment Center at 28 Wells Avenue, provide job placement and counseling services for those seeking work in wind energy and related sectors.

Additional opportunities may be found with local contractors, maintenance firms, and energy companies supporting both onshore and offshore wind projects throughout the region.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Most wind turbine technician programs require applicants to meet the following prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Age: Minimum of 18 years old
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb ladders and towers (typically up to 300 feet), lift at least 50 pounds, and meet weight restrictions for safety harnesses (often under 264 pounds)
  • Background: Some programs may require a background check, drug screening, or medical clearance
  • Basic Skills: Proficiency in math, science, and mechanical reasoning is highly recommended

Programs such as LaGuardia Community College’s Wind Turbine Technician Training also require attendance at an information session and may prioritize applicants from disadvantaged or priority populations.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

Certification, while not legally required in New York, is highly valued by employers and can significantly enhance job prospects. The most widely recognized certifications include:

  • Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Certification:

  • NCCER Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician:

  • OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour General Industry Certification:

    • OSHA Training
      Many employers require proof of basic safety training.

  • North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP):

    • NABCEP Certification
      While more common in solar, NABCEP offers credentials recognized across the renewable energy sector.

  • Electronics Technicians Association (ETA):

    • ETA Certification
      Offers certifications in small wind systems and related technical areas.

Obtaining GWO and OSHA certifications is strongly recommended, particularly for those seeking offshore wind positions.

Get Started Today

The wind energy sector in New York is expanding rapidly, bringing abundant opportunities for skilled wind turbine technicians. Yonkers residents can take advantage of local resources, workforce boards, and accessible training programs in the greater New York City area to begin a career in this rewarding field. Explore your educational options, connect with local career centers, and reach out to schools offering wind turbine technician training. With the right preparation and certification, you can play a key role in powering New York’s clean energy future.

For more information on the occupational outlook for wind turbine technicians, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.