Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Akron, Ohio

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Akron, Ohio

Wind energy is reshaping the landscape of renewable power in the United States, and wind turbine technicians are at the center of this transformation. These skilled professionals are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the towering turbines that generate clean electricity. For those in Akron, Ohio, the path to becoming a wind turbine technician involves choosing from several educational routes, gaining practical experience, and earning industry-recognized certifications.

Aspiring wind turbine technicians in Akron can pursue training through local or regional community colleges, technical institutes, or online programs with hands-on components. Options range from short-term certificate programs to comprehensive two-year associate degrees. Understanding the local education and employment landscape is essential for anyone interested in launching a rewarding wind energy career in northeast Ohio.

About Akron, Ohio

Located in northeast Ohio, Akron is a city known for its innovation, strong industrial heritage, and commitment to sustainability. As the county seat of Summit County, Akron is home to neighborhoods such as Highland Square, Wallhaven, and Firestone Park. The city has invested in clean energy initiatives, joining Power a Clean Future Ohio and establishing an Office of Sustainability and Resiliency. For more information about Akron and its services, visit the City of Akron official website.

While Akron does not host major wind farms, its central location and robust workforce development resources make it an excellent base for those pursuing careers in wind energy and other renewable fields.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Akron, Ohio

Akron itself does not currently have a dedicated wind turbine technician program. However, several accessible options are available in Ohio and online, offering pathways tailored to a variety of student needs.

1. Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI) – Online with Hands-On Boot Camp

  • Location: Online coursework; boot camp in Kansas City, Missouri
  • Distance from Akron: Remote learning with travel for boot camp
  • Program Overview: PCI offers a 40-week Wind Turbine Technician Certificate program. The curriculum covers wind turbine systems, electronics, hydraulics, and essential safety training. A highlight is a required 10-day in-person boot camp, where students gain hands-on experience in wind safety, basic electronics, and complete certifications such as OSHA 30 and First Aid/CPR. The program is designed for fast workforce entry and includes all travel and accommodation costs for the boot camp.
  • Learn more about PCI’s Wind Turbine Technician Program

2. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College – Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology (EMET) with Renewable Energy Major

  • Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Distance from Akron: Approximately 240 miles southwest
  • Program Overview: Cincinnati State offers a two-year associate degree focusing on electro-mechanical engineering with a renewable energy concentration. Coursework includes wind devices, renewable energy systems, and hands-on laboratory experiences, plus co-op work placements for practical training.
  • View the EMET Renewable Energy Major at Cincinnati State

3. Stark State College – Technical and Renewable Energy Programs

  • Location: North Canton, Ohio
  • Distance from Akron: About 15 miles south
  • Program Overview: While Stark State does not offer a dedicated wind turbine technician program, it provides a range of technical degrees and certificates related to renewable energy, electronics, and industrial maintenance. Akron city employees and their dependents may qualify for tuition-free education through the Akron Workforce Development Program.
  • Explore technical programs at Stark State College

If you reside in Akron and want targeted wind turbine technician training, starting with a local technical program or online certificate is an effective approach. Many employers also offer additional on-the-job training for new hires who have completed foundational education.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Akron

While Summit County and the Akron region do not currently host large-scale wind farms, Ohio remains a significant hub for wind energy manufacturing and operations. Most major wind facilities are located in northwest Ohio, but local and regional employers often recruit from across the state.

Major Wind Energy Employers Near Akron

  • EDF Renewables
    Operates wind farms in northwest Ohio, offering technician positions in operations and maintenance.
    EDF Renewables Careers

  • EDP Renewables
    Manages several wind farms in Ohio, including in Paulding and Van Wert counties. Positions include wind technician, site supervisor, and support roles.
    EDP Renewables Careers

  • Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy
    A global wind turbine manufacturer with field service operations and technician jobs across Ohio.
    Siemens Gamesa Careers

Additionally, Ohio is home to over 60 wind turbine manufacturing and supply chain facilities, offering job opportunities in assembly, quality assurance, and technical support. For local job seekers, OhioMeansJobs Summit County provides employment services and connections to renewable energy employers.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Most wind turbine technician training programs require the following prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Age: Minimum age of 18 (some programs may allow 17 with parental consent)
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb towers, lift equipment (often up to 40 lbs.), and work at heights
  • Background Check: Clean driving record and no disqualifying criminal history (for many employers)
  • Basic Skills: Foundational knowledge in mathematics, physics, and mechanical systems is recommended
  • Medical Clearance: Some employers and programs may require a physical exam to ensure fitness for climbing and working at heights

Meeting these prerequisites ensures students are prepared for the physical and technical demands of wind turbine work.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

Certification is not legally required in Ohio but is highly valued by employers and can enhance job prospects. Key certification options include:

  • OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour Training: Covers safety protocols for construction and general industry. Most employers require OSHA 30.

  • Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Certification: Includes Basic Safety Training (BST), Basic Technical Training (BTT), and specialized modules for tower rescue, fire awareness, and manual handling.

  • First Aid/CPR Certification: Essential for handling workplace emergencies. Often included in training programs.

  • North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP): Offers advanced certification for renewable energy technicians.

  • Tower Climbing and Rescue Training: Required for technicians working at heights, often based on NATE Climber/Rescue Training Standard (CRTS).

Earning these certifications demonstrates readiness for the field and commitment to safety, increasing employability and advancement potential.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a wind turbine technician career in Akron, Ohio, offers the chance to enter a high-growth, well-compensated field driving the nation’s clean energy future. Whether you choose a local technical college, an online certificate with hands-on training, or a regional associate degree, the path to certification and employment is accessible. Begin by reviewing your educational options, preparing for program prerequisites, and connecting with local workforce development resources to set your career in motion. Contact a school today to learn more about program enrollment and start your journey toward becoming a wind turbine technician.

For more information on the job outlook for wind turbine technicians, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.