A career as a Wind Turbine Technician has many rewards. You get to travel to places you might otherwise never see. You work outdoors. You get hands-on with interesting new technology. You also have the knowledge that you’re supporting the transition from a fossil fuel economy to one based on renewable power.

While every career comes with its challenges, understanding and preparing for them can help you stay motivated and satisfied in your role as a Wind Turbine Technician.

Challenges of Being a Wind Turbine Technician

1. Weather – The weather conditions you’ll face as a Wind Turbine Technician can vary greatly with the seasons. In winter, you may have to work in freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. During the summer, intense heat and direct sun exposure can make the job physically demanding. Additionally, high winds and rain are common challenges that can make working conditions tough, especially at height.

2. Remote Locations – Wind farms are often located in isolated areas, which means you may need to travel long distances and sometimes live on-site for extended periods. This can result in longer shifts and limited social interaction. The downtime between tasks may also be spent in more remote or less populated areas, making it essential to adapt to solitude and limited amenities.

3. Physical Demand – The role of a Wind Turbine Technician is physically demanding. You’ll be required to climb towers, sometimes reaching heights of 300 feet, and lift heavy equipment and tools. While newer towers may have climb assist technology or even elevators, physical strength and stamina remain key components of the job. Additionally, you will often work in confined spaces and around complex machinery, which requires constant vigilance and safety awareness.

Safety Considerations for Wind Turbine Technicians

Given the nature of the job, Wind Turbine Technicians frequently work at heights, in confined spaces, and extreme weather conditions. Being aware of various risks and taking steps to mitigate them is definitely crucial.

Fall safety is always a concern when working at height. Make sure to wear fall protection equipment like safety harnesses and lanyards during ascents, descents, and while stationary. Falls can happen quickly, so stay alert and use the right gear at all times.

Wind turbine towers can also be considered confined spaces, which come with their own dangers. Always wear the appropriate protective gear, be mindful of potential hazards like extreme temperatures and electrical risks, and follow a buddy system when working in these tight spaces.

Weather conditions can be extreme—high winds, rain, snow, or heat are common. It's vital to have the right gear and make sure your fall protection equipment is in top condition to stay safe in these conditions.

When working on the outside of turbines, a work positioning lanyard can provide extra stability and support, minimizing the risk of falls. Before starting any work at height, double-check that all your gear is properly inspected and ready for use.

Use the tips here to combat those challenges and stay at the top of your game while working on a wind farm. That’s important, both for your safety, and for your long term job satisfaction.

If, knowing what you now know, you think you’d make a good Wind Turbine Technician, George Brown College can put you on that path. Contact a Program Consultant toll-free at 1-888-553-5333 or by email at [email protected] to start the discussion.