Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what being a wind trade professional entails. Wind trade professionals, particularly wind turbine technicians, are skilled workers who install, maintain, and repair wind turbines on wind farms, ensuring efficient energy production while adhering to safety standards. This includes climbing turbines up to 300 feet, troubleshooting electrical systems, and performing routine inspections in demanding outdoor environments, with an average wage of $22.83 per hour in Dallas 54. Check Nextera Energy jobs for real-world examples of these roles 5.
Yes! To work as a wind trade professional in Dallas, TX, you typically need GWO certifications from recognized programs, as employers require proof of training for safety and technical skills 1. The Global Wind Organisation (GWO) offers key certifications like Basic Safety Training and Advanced Rescue Training, which are essential for unsupervised work on wind farms, with Texas leading in demand due to its 25.8% share of the nation’s wind-generated electricity 32. While there's no statewide license, completing these certifications through accredited institutions is crucial to meet industry standards and fill the growing 5,200 job openings in 2023 2. Learn more about energy impacts at Power Alliance 2.
According to training programs, a wind trade apprenticeship in Dallas typically lasts 48 to 60 months, depending on the specific role, and combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training 1. Here's a breakdown of common apprenticeship terms:
| Wind Trade Role | Term (in Months) |
|---|---|
| Wind Turbine Technician | 60 |
| Advanced Rescue Training Role | 48 |
| Basic Technical Training Role | 54 |
To find an apprenticeship, use Gild to search for openings, which aggregates over 40 wind energy jobs in Dallas, or explore nearby programs like those at Tarrant County College 1. Joining training centers such as the Pearce Renewables Training Center in Dallas can also provide access to hands-on opportunities, helping you build the skills needed for high-demand roles 2.
To start a wind trade career, you must meet specific basic requirements: be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and demonstrate physical fitness for tasks like working at heights 4. Coursework in electrical systems and safety practices is beneficial, as Texas faces a workforce gap with employers seeking candidates for growing technician positions 2. Visit Talent.com for salary insights 4.
Enrolling in a program is highly recommended for building foundational skills. Institutions like Tarrant County College in Dallas offer courses on renewable energy and wind turbine technology, with tuition ranging from $3,402 to $8,235 1. Other options include MIAT University of Technology, providing hands-on training in electrical theory and safety, preparing you for the 96% projected growth in wind jobs nationwide 61. Discover more programs at ZipRecruiter for Dallas jobs 5.
An apprenticeship is key for gaining practical experience, lasting 4-5 years and involving supervised work on wind farms 3. Use Gild to find apprenticeships in Dallas, where you can apply for roles listed on platforms like ZipRecruiter [https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Wind-Energy/--in-Texas]. During this time, you'll learn skills like turbine maintenance and safety protocols, addressing the high demand for qualified technicians 54.
After your apprenticeship, obtain GWO certifications such as Basic Safety Training to work independently 1. Programs at institutions like Wind Trade Academy in nearby Fort Worth offer these, enhancing your resume for Dallas-area jobs paying $18 to $33 per hour 5. Check resources like Indeed for openings that require these qualifications 4. For additional data, see Texas Comptroller 2.
Once certified, you can advance to roles like senior technicians or supervisors, with Texas expecting over 5,200 openings in 2023 2. Consider further training through University of Texas at Dallas for advanced knowledge, leading to higher salaries and leadership positions in the expanding wind sector 4. Explore career paths via Gild and other resources 3.
Starting a wind trade career in Dallas, TX in 2025 is a smart move with strong growth and competitive pay, but it requires commitment to training and certifications. Whether you're finishing high school or switching careers, use Gild to explore apprenticeships and job listings near you, and check out programs like those at Tarrant County College [https://www.tstc.edu/programs/windenergytechnology/]. As the sector evolves, opportunities in wind trade will continue to expand, making now the perfect time to build your future—start by visiting Power Alliance for more insights.
https://comptroller.texas.gov/economy/economic-data/energy/2023/wind-snap.php ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.texastribune.org/2024/04/04/texas-wind-energy-technician-training/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
https://www.chooseenergy.com/data-center/wind-generation-by-state/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.axios.com/2024/08/30/us-jobs-fastest-growing-wind-energy ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.indeed.com/q-wind-energy-l-dallas,-tx-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://poweralliance.org/texas/economic-impact-tx/clean-energy-creates-jobs-tx/ ↩
