Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Tulsa, Oklahoma

The demand for wind turbine technicians is surging across the United States, and Oklahoma stands out as a major hub for wind energy production. For those in Tulsa, Oklahoma, becoming a wind turbine technician offers a pathway to a high-growth, well-compensated career in the renewable energy sector. This guide explores what a wind turbine technician does, the education and training paths available, and how to launch a career in this dynamic field—right from Tulsa.

Wind turbine technicians, often called “wind techs,” are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines. Their work is essential to ensuring the reliable generation of clean, renewable electricity from wind farms. Most wind techs enter the field through specialized certificate or associate degree programs, which combine classroom learning with hands-on technical training.

There are several education paths to become a wind turbine technician:

  • Certificate or Diploma Programs: Shorter, career-focused programs designed to get students job-ready quickly.
  • Associate Degrees: Two-year programs offering broader instruction in wind energy technology and related fields.
  • Industry Certifications: Credentials from recognized organizations such as the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) or the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

No matter which path you choose, the journey starts with finding the right wind turbine technician program and understanding the local opportunities in Tulsa and the wider Oklahoma region.

About Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa, located in northeastern Oklahoma, is the state’s second-largest city and a key player in both traditional and renewable energy industries. The city is known for its art deco architecture, the vibrant Blue Dome District, and the Gathering Place—a nationally acclaimed riverfront park. Tulsa’s central location makes it a gateway to Oklahoma’s booming wind energy sector, even though most wind farms and training centers are situated outside the immediate metro area. Learn more about the city by visiting the City of Tulsa’s official website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Currently, there are no dedicated wind turbine technician programs located directly in Tulsa. However, several top-rated programs are accessible within the state, offering Tulsa residents high-quality training options:

1. High Plains Technology Center (Woodward, OK)

  • Distance from Tulsa: Approximately 130 miles northwest
  • Program: Advanced Wind Energy Technician
  • Overview: High Plains Technology Center is Oklahoma’s flagship wind tech training provider and the only GWO-certified facility in the state. The 20-week program delivers comprehensive instruction in wind energy safety, mechanical and electrical systems, hydraulics/pneumatics, and preventive maintenance. Students graduate with 21 industry certifications, including GWO and OSHA credentials. The facility features hands-on learning with a working 45-meter turbine, a 2.3 MW nacelle, and a 35-foot indoor climbing tower. The program is Pell Grant-eligible, with classes starting twice a year.
  • Tuition: Pell-eligible for qualified students; scholarships available.

2. Canadian Valley Technology Center (El Reno, OK)

  • Distance from Tulsa: Approximately 115 miles southwest
  • Program: Wind Energy Technician
  • Overview: CV Tech offers a flexible, hybrid-format program combining online and in-person instruction. The five-week curriculum focuses on tower climbing, system maintenance, and essential certifications, such as hydraulics, electricity, First Aid/CPR/AED, and confined space operations. The program is accessible to students of all backgrounds and is eligible for GI Bill benefits for veterans. The Next Step Scholarship may cover tuition for qualifying students under age 24 in the district.
  • Tuition: $1,595 for the program; scholarships and GI Bill benefits available.

3. Tulsa Technology Center (Tulsa, OK)

  • Location: Various campuses in Tulsa metro area
  • Program: Energy and Power Career Pathway
  • Overview: While Tulsa Tech does not offer a specialized wind turbine technician program, its Energy and Power pathway provides foundational skills in electrical systems, safety, and maintenance relevant to wind energy. This program can serve as a stepping stone for further specialized wind tech training at HPTC or CV Tech.

Tulsa residents interested in wind tech careers can apply to these programs, with most requiring travel or temporary relocation to Woodward or El Reno.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Tulsa

Tulsa’s central location provides access to a variety of wind energy employers, even though major wind farms are primarily located outside the city. Key employers and facilities include:

Vestas Wind Systems

  • Overview: As a leading global wind turbine manufacturer, Vestas operates and maintains wind farms throughout Oklahoma. Wind turbine technician positions often involve travel across multiple sites in the Midwest, including Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas.
  • Employment Opportunities: Vestas Careers

Invenergy

  • Overview: Invenergy manages several wind farms in Oklahoma, offering roles in maintenance, operations, and technical services.
  • Employment Opportunities: Invenergy Careers

Enel North America

  • Overview: Enel operates wind energy facilities across the state, providing jobs in operations, maintenance, and project management.
  • Employment Opportunities: Enel Careers

Verdigris Wind Farm

  • Location: Craig and Nowata counties (about 60 miles north of Tulsa)
  • Overview: The new Verdigris Wind Farm project will create several permanent technician positions as well as hundreds of construction jobs during the build phase.

For more information on local employment options and workforce resources, visit the Green Country Workforce Development Board and Oklahoma Works.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Admission requirements for wind turbine technician programs are designed to ensure students can safely and effectively perform the physical and technical aspects of the job. Typical prerequisites include:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED (required by most programs)
  • Age: Minimum age 18 for most training and employment opportunities
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb ladders, work at heights (up to 100 meters), lift up to 50 pounds, and meet maximum weight limits for safety equipment (usually 265 pounds)
  • Medical Requirements: Adequate hearing, vision, and overall health to perform safety-sensitive tasks
  • Legal Authorization: Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. and possess a valid driver’s license
  • Language: Proficiency in English for instruction and safety communication
  • Additional Requirements: Some employers may require background checks and drug screenings

Meeting these prerequisites is essential for successful entry and completion of a wind tech program.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

Certification enhances employability and is often preferred by leading wind energy companies. Key certification options include:

Global Wind Organisation (GWO)

  • Certifications Offered: Basic Safety Training (BST), Basic Technical Training (BTT), and Advanced Rescue Training (ART)
  • Details: GWO certifications are the international industry standard for wind turbine technicians, covering critical safety and technical competencies.
  • More Information: Global Wind Organisation

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)

  • Certifications Offered: Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician credentials
  • Details: NCCER provides a standardized curriculum and credentialing for wind techs, focusing on safety, electrical, and mechanical systems.
  • More Information: NCCER Wind Technician

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

  • Certifications Offered: OSHA 10-hour and 30-hour wind industry-specific safety certifications
  • Details: OSHA training is essential for compliance with federal workplace safety regulations.
  • More Information: OSHA Training

While certification is often voluntary, it is highly recommended and sometimes required by employers, especially those with international or large-scale operations.

Get Started Today

The wind energy industry in Oklahoma is growing rapidly, and Tulsa residents are well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities it brings. Whether you aim to install, maintain, or repair the turbines that power homes and businesses, the journey begins with the right training.

Explore your options, meet the prerequisites, and reach out to one of the leading training providers to learn more. Take the first step toward a rewarding career as a wind turbine technician—contact a school today and start your journey into the future of clean energy.

For the most up-to-date job outlook and salary information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.