According to the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA), wind energy is the fastest-growing source of electricity in the world, with Canada ranking seventh in the world for total fitted wind energy capacity.
Despite the increasing role that wind energy will be playing in B.C.’s energy sector there are very few institutions across the country that offer training. There is only one college, Northern Lights College (NLC) campus in Dawson Creek offering a Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician program since 2010. “We have seen the demand grow every year,” says the college’s Dean of Trades and Apprenticeships, Mark Heartt.
NLC’s Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician program is internationally certified and recognized allows graduates to work anywhere in the world. This places NLC students at the forefront of a global alternative energy movement.
“The demand for trained technicians in wind turbine construction and maintenance will continue to be strong. This is a great time to get into a burgeoning industry; one that pays well and offers plenty of opportunities,” says Heartt.
– files from BC Business and BC Colleges
