DANA, Iowa—Students from Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) climbed a wind turbine today at the Junction Hilltop Wind Farm in Dana, Iowa, as a hands-on learning opportunity for the Wind Technician Training program. DMACC’s two-year certificate program seeks to meet the growing demand for wind turbine technicians. Wind generates more than 36 percent of the state’s power—the highest percentage of electricity by wind of any state. Iowa also ranks second in the nation for installed capacity.

“Our program helps students achieve their dreams by training them on how to use state of the art technology, while at the same time meeting the industry’s growing demand for a skilled workforce,” said James Fitzpatrick, applied engineering instructor at DMACC. “On average, five out of six students land a job before or immediately after graduation. We still have seats available for the fall program.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, wind turbine technician is the nation’s second fastest growing occupation. New wind technician graduates can make a starting salary of $40,000 to $45,000 as a wind turbine technician, and a shortage for skilled wind turbine technicians means there the jobs are often waiting for them when they graduate. For graduating community college students, few careers can equal the placement and salary prospects as a wind turbine technician.

“For anyone looking for adventure and who wants to be hands on and travel, this is the perfect field,” said DMACC student Chris Jackson. “It’s a short program and has a strong career outlook.”

The wind industry in Iowa employs more than 8,000 people and accounts for at least $13.5 billion in capital investment in the state.

“Iowa is a national leader in wind energy—and the industry is still growing,” said Tom Wind of Wind Utility Consulting. “Wind energy is driving Iowa’s economy forward by helping fund local infrastructure projects through tax revenues, providing farmers with additional income through lease payments and allowing all residents to enjoy some of lowest energy rates in the country. Here in Greene County, property tax revenue is helping to fund a Career Academy to train high school students from eight nearby school districts in jobs that will benefit existing businesses in our local economy.”

Iowa is also a leader in wind manufacturing (home to two major blade manufacturers – Siemens and TPI Composites).

DMACC Wind Technology Training Program students receive training at site in Greene County.

(contributed article and photo)