Not all jobs within the tech sector are created equal. Some emphasize technical proficiency while others are best suited for those with above average physical strength and stamina. By all accounts, the role of the wind turbine technician checks both of those boxes. 

The inherent challenges encountered by Wind Turbine Technicians while on the job are significant, but one thing remains certain: getting up in the morning and scaling a Wind Turbine - especially one located in an offshore wind farm - is not for the faint of heart.

A demanding career though it may be, the simple truth is there are few others that can match the challenge and exhilaration experienced by Wind Turbine Technicians. Requiring a blend of technical expertise and adrenaline fueled physical prowess,  there are inalienable core competencies that every Wind Tech should possess. These competencies are laid out in detail in the sections that follow.

Technical Proficiencies

As is the case with any trade, the technical proficiencies that one possesses is directly linked to the successful execution of one's role. Technical proficiencies - as they relate to the Wind Turbine Technician in particular - can be segregated into four main categories. These are troubleshooting, electrical and mechanical systems (respectively), and maintenance. While the tasks associated with each proficiency may vary, they can nonetheless be described, in general terms, in the following sections. 

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting is generally associated with performing the initial diagnostics of issues relating to the purportedly faulty components or systems within a wind turbine to determine the underlying cause of the error(s). Fortunately, Wind Turbine Technicians do not need to commit all of their troubleshooting knowledge to memory; they can leverage specialized equipment to test everything from individual components to entire systems in their pursuit of accurate diagnostics. Programmed fault codes within the devices often lead the way to the root cause of a particular issue and documented protocols help the technician to expedite the resolution of said issue. While performing troubleshooting, Wind Turbine Technicians will often collaborate with other technicians to strategize on fault resolution methodologies with an emphasis on mitigating disruption to operations. Lastly, technicians must often keep copious notes and service records to assist the next Wind Turbine Technician responsible for servicing the equipment.

Electrical Systems

Even before the turbine is operational, the Wind Turbine Technician must assist with the completion of test plans to ensure the proper functioning of controls, electrical systems and operating equipment. This will often include the analysis of electric motors, generators and transformers to ensure they are operating within specifications. Technicians must also collaborate with other teams to identify appropriate conduit routing and wiring pathways. 

Mechanical Systems

Of course, Wind Turbine Technicians must also possess the skills necessary to assist with the assembly and commissioning of the various mechanical assemblies within the wind turbine. As with electrical systems and equipment, technicians need to ensure that all mechanical equipment is operating to spec. 

Service and Maintenance

Wind Turbine Technicians must ensure there is an adequate inventory of spare parts in order to expedite replacement and repairs of critical equipment and components. They are also tasked with completing regularly scheduled maintenance to perform upkeep tasks such as lubricating moving parts, bearings, etc. while also identifying and documenting issues that have arisen since the last service. Technicians need to be able to complete critical repairs and preventative maintenance on a wide variety of equipment and keep detailed repair logs which will be used to facilitate similar repairs in the future and assist with preventative maintenance planning. 

Personality and Interest Profile of a Wind Turbine Technician

Technicians, in a very general sense, tend to be interested in building and are often outwardly organized. This, of course, lends itself well to those who are proficient with tools, possess above average attention to detail, and who can quickly master regulated processes such as those required for completing repairs. 

More specifically, Wind Turbine Technicians will also possess the following qualities:

• Mechanical Skills: Due to the often remote location of wind turbines and wind farms, Wind Turbine Technicians must possess sufficient skills to be able to maintain and repair all of the mechanical components and equipment located within the nacelle of a wind turbine.  
• Physical Stamina and Strength: It stands to reason that Wind Turbine Technicians must possess above average strength and  stamina to climb upwards of 260 feet while carrying tools and equipment to their worksite. 
• Mental Fortitude: Since Technicians must complete repairs at heights and within the nacelle, they must be able to overcome any discomfort with heights and small, confined spaces. 

Safety Oriented

Safety, especially in roles that are high stress and/or physically demanding should always be top of mind. That of course means that Wind Turbine Technicians, who often work alone or on small teams, need to have a keen understanding of occupational safety and an even greater commitment to established safety protocols while on the job. In addition to completing all work following their employer’s internal safety management system, Wind Turbine Technicians are often required to: 

• Maintain a safe and clutter-free work environment for themselves and others. 
• Accurately report any safety incidents or near-miss reports and submit them in a timely fashion. 
• Wear all required PPE (personal protective equipment) while on site. 
• Adheres to lock/out tag/out procedures when servicing electrical and mechanical equipment to prevent equipment from turning on while it is being serviced. 
• Complete hazard assessments of the work environment and communicate observed risks to other technicians. 

If working at an offshore wind farm, the following additional safety responsibilities may also apply. 

• CPR and first aid certification, allows technicians to provide additional support if a crew member is ill or injured. 
• Trained to operate survival craft that may be deployed in the event of an emergency at sea. 
• Willingness to participate in regular safety drills, and accept roles during an emergency situation. 

Wind Turbine Technicians: A Blend of Adrenaline and Expertise

No one will ever mistake the role of Wind Tech with one that comes quick or is performed easily. To be successful, Wind Turbine Technicians have to be technically proficient with electrical and mechanical systems, troubleshooting, maintenance, but they must also have the physical ability necessary to execute their tasks, all while braving heights and cramped quarters. 

To those with an adventurous spirit, the challenge and difficulty associated with being a Wind Turbine Technician are by no means reasons to avoid the profession, but rather provides the basis for pursuing it. 

If you would like to learn more about this adrenaline-filled role, consider speaking to a program consultant at George Brown College by dialing 1-888-553-5333 and ask them about the Wind Turbine Technician Program.