Wind Turbine Technician Programs in Spokane, Washington

Becoming a Wind Turbine Technician in Spokane, Washington

Are you interested in a career that combines technical skill, outdoor work, and a direct contribution to clean energy? Becoming a wind turbine technician in Spokane, Washington offers a dynamic pathway into the growing wind energy industry. Wind turbine technicians, also known as windtechs, install, maintain, and repair wind turbines—the towering machines that generate electricity from wind. These roles are in high demand as the United States and Washington State expand their renewable energy infrastructure.

There are several education paths to becoming a wind turbine technician in Spokane. Most technicians complete a certificate or associate degree program focused on wind energy technology, industrial maintenance, or a related technical field. Programs typically blend classroom instruction with hands-on training, ensuring graduates are prepared for the physical and technical demands of the job. Some technicians also start through registered apprenticeships or on-the-job training, and professional certification is highly valued for both safety and career advancement.

This guide outlines the training options, local schools, employment opportunities, prerequisites, and certification pathways for aspiring wind turbine technicians in Spokane, Washington.

About Spokane, Washington

Spokane is the economic and cultural center of eastern Washington, located on the scenic Spokane River. As the second-largest city in the state, Spokane is known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to outdoor recreation in the Inland Northwest. The city is home to neighborhoods such as Browne’s Addition, South Hill, and the University District, and serves as a hub for education and workforce training.

Learn more about the city on the official Spokane city website.

Wind Turbine Technician Training Programs in Spokane, Washington

While Spokane itself does not currently host a dedicated wind turbine technician program, local schools offer foundational technical training that aligns with industry needs. For comprehensive wind turbine technician education, students may need to attend programs in nearby cities. Below are the most relevant and accessible options for Spokane residents:

Spokane Community College (SCC)

  • Location: Main Campus in Spokane; Colville Center (about 70 miles north of Spokane)
  • Website: Spokane Community College
  • Relevant Programs:
  • Program Description: SCC offers certificates and associate degrees that build essential skills in machining, electrical troubleshooting, hydraulics, welding, and equipment maintenance. These skills are directly applicable to wind turbine maintenance and repair. The programs provide hands-on training in labs with industry-standard equipment, preparing graduates for entry-level technician roles in energy, utilities, and manufacturing.

Walla Walla Community College

  • Location: Walla Walla, WA (about 100 miles south of Spokane)
  • Program: Energy Systems Technology – Renewable Energy
  • Program Description: This two-year Associate in Applied Science degree offers specialized coursework in wind energy, industrial electricity, programmable logic controllers, and renewable energy systems. The curriculum is tailored for students pursuing careers as wind turbine technicians and offers direct pathways to employment in the wind industry. Tuition for the program ranges from $4,965 to $6,306 per year.

Centralia College

  • Location: Centralia, WA (about 300 miles west of Spokane)
  • Program: Energy Technology Program
  • Program Description: Centralia College offers an Energy Technology program that includes study in wind, solar, and hydroelectric power systems. The curriculum covers electrical theory, safety, and troubleshooting, and is designed to prepare students for entry-level energy sector jobs, including wind technician roles.

If you are located in Spokane, these programs represent the nearest and most relevant training options. For those seeking shorter travel distances, Spokane Community College’s technical programs can provide a strong foundation, while Walla Walla Community College offers a specialized wind energy pathway.

Wind Turbine Technician Employment Opportunities in Spokane

Although Spokane is not home to major wind farms, the city serves as a regional hub for the energy sector and offers access to employers involved in wind turbine installation and maintenance throughout Washington. Below are notable companies and organizations offering career opportunities, along with links to their official employment pages:

Avista Utilities

  • Location: Headquarters in Downtown Spokane
  • Website: Avista Careers
  • About: Avista is one of the Pacific Northwest’s leading energy providers, supplying electricity and natural gas to eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and parts of Oregon. While Avista primarily operates hydroelectric and natural gas facilities, it also manages renewable energy projects and may have roles related to wind energy systems, project management, or field maintenance.

WorkSource Spokane

  • Location: Downtown Spokane
  • Website: WorkSource Spokane
  • About: WorkSource Spokane is a workforce development center connecting job seekers with energy sector employers throughout the region. It offers job search support, resume assistance, and listings for wind technician and related positions in Spokane and across Washington.

Puget Sound Energy (PSE)

  • Location: Wind operations in central Washington; corporate office in Bellevue, WA
  • Website: PSE Careers
  • About: While PSE’s main office is on the west side of the state, the company operates significant wind farms in central Washington and occasionally posts wind technician positions accessible to Spokane-area residents willing to relocate or commute.

Other regional opportunities may be available through national wind energy contractors, maintenance companies such as Sky Climber Renewables, or construction firms supporting wind farm projects in eastern Washington. Many wind turbine technicians trained in Spokane travel to wind farms in Klickitat, Adams, or Benton counties for fieldwork.

Prerequisites for Wind Turbine Technician Programs

To enroll in a wind turbine technician program in Washington State, applicants typically must meet these requirements:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum Age: Usually 18 years or older
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to work at heights, lift 50+ lbs, and perform strenuous tasks in varying weather conditions
  • Background Checks: Some programs or employers may require criminal background checks or drug screening
  • Math and Science Skills: Basic proficiency in mathematics and physics is strongly recommended
  • Additional Requirements: Certain programs may require placement testing or completion of prerequisite courses in math, science, or technical subjects

Meeting these prerequisites helps ensure that students are prepared for the physical and academic demands of wind turbine technician training and employment.

Wind Turbine Technician Certification Options

While certification is not always legally required, earning an industry-recognized credential can significantly enhance your employability and safety in the field. The following certifications are most relevant for wind turbine technicians:

  • Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Basic Safety Training (BST): This internationally recognized certification covers fire awareness, first aid, manual handling, working at heights, and sea survival (for offshore roles). GWO BST is highly valued by employers and often a prerequisite for fieldwork. Learn more at the Global Wind Organisation website.

  • OSHA Training: Wind technicians should complete Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety training, particularly in fall protection, electrical safety, and hazard communication. Details are available at the OSHA Wind Energy Safety page.

  • NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research): Some employers recognize NCCER’s Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician certification. Information can be found at the NCCER official site.

  • Manufacturer Certifications: Wind turbine manufacturers and large maintenance firms may require or provide their own equipment-specific training and certification.

  • Registered Apprenticeships: Apprenticeship programs, such as those listed on Apprenticeship.gov, provide paid, on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction.

Certification not only demonstrates your readiness for the job but also ensures you can work safely and effectively in challenging conditions.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a wind turbine technician in Spokane, Washington is an exciting step toward a rewarding role in the renewable energy sector. With strong job growth projections, competitive wages, and a range of education and certification options, now is an excellent time to start your journey. Explore the programs listed above, review their admissions requirements, and contact a school today to get personalized information on how to enroll. Your path to an in-demand, meaningful career in wind energy can begin with the right training—reach out and take that first step.

For more details on job outlook and national employment trends for wind turbine technicians, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Wind Turbine Technicians page.