Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Chesapeake, Virginia

Wind energy is rapidly transforming the American energy landscape, and Chesapeake, Virginia, stands at the forefront of this change. As a wind turbine technician, you play a crucial role in the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines—specialized equipment that harnesses wind power to generate clean electricity. This guide explores how to become a wind turbine technician in Chesapeake, the available training programs, career prospects, and the certifications that will help you launch a successful career in this fast-growing field.

About Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake is an independent city located in the southeastern region of Virginia, forming part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. Known for its blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, Chesapeake is home to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and a network of waterways, parks, and neighborhoods such as Greenbrier, Deep Creek, and Western Branch. As a hub for maritime and energy industries, Chesapeake is strategically positioned near the Atlantic coast and the Port of Virginia. More information about the city, its government, and community resources can be found on the official City of Chesapeake website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

While Chesapeake itself does not currently host a dedicated wind turbine technician program, residents have convenient access to several top-tier schools and training centers in the nearby Hampton Roads region. These institutions offer hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials essential for entering the wind energy workforce.

1. Centura College – Norfolk, VA (Approx. 20 miles from Chesapeake)
Centura College’s Norfolk campus delivers a comprehensive, 12-month Wind Turbine Technician diploma program. The curriculum covers wind energy fundamentals, safety protocols, electrical systems, mechanical components, and hands-on training with real wind turbine equipment. Students can choose day or evening classes, and the program prepares graduates for industry certifications, including CPR/Basic Life Support and the NCCER Introduction to Power Industry and Wind Turbine Maintenance Level I. Learn more at Centura College – Wind Turbine Technician Program.

2. New College Institute (NCI) – Hampton Roads/Martinsville, VA
The New College Institute is a certified Global Wind Organisation (GWO) training provider with facilities serving the Hampton Roads area. NCI offers GWO Basic Safety Training, Basic Technical Training, and advanced rescue courses. Their programs are designed to meet international industry standards and provide specialized training for both onshore and offshore wind careers.

3. Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy – Norfolk, VA
The Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy offers GWO-certified wind energy training as part of the Mid-Atlantic Wind Training Alliance. Their courses include Basic Safety Training with a focus on maritime safety, making them especially valuable for those interested in offshore wind careers.

Additional community colleges such as Tidewater Community College and Virginia Peninsula Community College offer introductory courses in wind turbine technology, providing foundational knowledge for those exploring the field.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Chesapeake

The Hampton Roads region, including Chesapeake, has become a key hub for wind energy development, particularly with the ongoing Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project. Several major employers and facilities in the area support wind energy careers:

  • Dominion Energy – Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project
    Dominion Energy operates the largest offshore wind project in the United States, located approximately 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach. The project is expected to support about 1,000 permanent operations and maintenance jobs upon completion and regularly hosts workforce development events. Explore opportunities at Dominion Energy Careers.

  • Portsmouth Marine Terminal (PMT) – Portsmouth, VA
    PMT serves as the primary staging facility for the CVOW project and houses the Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy blade manufacturing facility. The terminal is a major center for logistics, assembly, and workforce activity in the wind sector. Information about the facility and economic development initiatives can be found via the Hampton Roads Alliance.

  • Fairwinds Landing – Norfolk, VA
    This marine industrial campus supports offshore wind logistics and assembly, providing further career opportunities related to wind turbine installation and maintenance. More about the project is available at Fairwinds Landing.

These facilities are conveniently accessible from Chesapeake and are situated in major neighborhoods such as Norfolk’s industrial corridor and Portsmouth’s marine district.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a wind turbine technician program, applicants should be aware of several common prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old.
  • Physical Fitness: The job demands frequent climbing, working at heights, lifting heavy equipment, and operating in confined spaces. Applicants may need to meet weight and medical clearance requirements for safety equipment.
  • Background Check: Prospective students must undergo a criminal background check, and eligibility for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is often necessary, especially for offshore work.
  • English Proficiency: Strong English skills are essential for safety and technical communication.
  • Recommended Coursework: Algebra, computer applications, or electronics courses in high school are beneficial.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

While certification is not always legally required, it is highly recommended and often preferred by employers. The most recognized certifications include:

  • Global Wind Organisation (GWO):
    GWO offers internationally recognized certifications such as Basic Safety Training (BST) and Basic Technical Training (BTT). These programs cover working at heights, first aid, fire safety, manual handling, sea survival (for offshore), electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems.

  • OSHA Safety Training:
    Completion of OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour safety courses is required for all wind site personnel. Additional fall protection and emergency rescue certifications are required for working at heights.

  • National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER):
    NCCER certifications, such as Introduction to Power Industry and Wind Turbine Maintenance Level I, validate technical competency and are integrated into many training programs.

  • CPR/First Aid Certification:
    Valid CPR and first aid certification, often through the American Red Cross, is standard for all technicians.

Certification demonstrates to employers that you possess the safety awareness and technical skills needed for the job, and it can significantly improve your employment prospects and salary potential.

Get Started Today

The wind energy sector is rapidly expanding, and Chesapeake, Virginia, is perfectly positioned for those seeking a career as a wind turbine technician. With robust training options nearby and a wealth of employment opportunities driven by major projects like the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, now is the ideal time to start your journey. Take the next step by reaching out to one of the training schools listed above. Your career in wind energy awaits—contact a program today to learn more and begin your training.

For more information on the national job outlook for Wind Turbine Technicians, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.