Become a wind technician with WindStart

GWO accredition for training courses

Start your wind technician career.

In our latest blog, we focus on how to become a wind technician with STL USA’s WindStart program. 

The WindStart program has been specifically designed to support people looking to get into the wind industry and the increasing demands of employers for new hires. The program includes a number of funding solutions that ensure the training course is low to no cost for many applicants. Employers join the program as hiring partners gaining access to a fully certified pool of new hires.

What is a Wind Technician?

Wind technicians install, inspect, maintain, operate, and repair wind turbines. Although technicians work across the full spectrum from installation to demolition and re-power the vast majority are involved in maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing turbines. Read more about the role on The Department Of Energy website,. here. 

What draws people to wind is the opportunity, salaries are high, and it truly is a career that can take you places. 

What is WindStart?

WindStart is a 3 or 4-week program designed to equip people new to wind with the industry certifications and basic knowledge to join new hire programs in wind. WindStart supercharges employability providing the candidate with key certification, including GWO and Electrical safety, plus a good basic grounding in skills and competency. This instantly places WindStart graduates at the top of the pile for hiring managers.

Am I guaranteed a job?

STL USA have a very large base of employers that are signed onto the program, many of these already use STL USA’s training services for their in house people and they are hiring large numbers of new people each year. On top of that the sector in the USA is growing fast, that’s not slowing down in the next 5-10 years. In fact hiring is probably one of the biggest challenges employers face, WindStart graduates are the most employable new hires in the country.

WindStart for employers

WindStart isn’t just about students. Becoming a wind technician is kind of difficult without employers to make it happen. The WindStart panel of employers have the pick of new hires that have passed through the program, come with GWO and Electrical safety qualifications and are commited to a career in wind energy. Employers have a bunch of options to make the program work for their new hire and training goals. They can simply pick up graduates as they come out of the program, they can shunt new hires they have sourced through the program or they can sponsor places in the program. The final option means STL USA will manage all the training and hiring needs for the employer.

Why is WindStart a better option for employers?

We all know how hard hiring is in wind energy at the moment, STL USA take care of this, train the candidate and hand them over to the employer ready to go saving significant amounts of time and money. Without WindStart employers have to go through the full hiring process, pay to get the person certified and take a big chance on whether that person will even work out.

How do i find out more?

Simply click the link below and regsiter your interest in the WindStart program, a member of the team will reach out to you and talk you through how WindStart can benefit you.

 

Interested in WindStart? 

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Join STL USA at ACP’s Operations and Maintenance show 2024

O&M 2024, join us at booth 406.

In the quest for a sustainable and greener future, the American Clean Power Association (ACPA) has been at the forefront of promoting clean energy solutions. The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Show 2024, hosted by ACPA in San Diego, emerges as a pivotal event, bringing together industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements in clean power technologies. This article delves into the significance of the ACPA O&M Show 2024, shedding light on its objectives, participants, and the potential impact on the clean energy landscape.

The American Clean Power Association:

Founded with the mission of accelerating the transition to a renewable energy-powered future, the American Clean Power Association has played a vital role in advocating for policies that support clean energy development. Comprising wind, solar, storage, and transmission companies, the ACPA serves as a unified voice for the clean power industry, fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.

The O&M Show 2024:

The Operations and Maintenance Show organized by the ACPA is a testament to the industry’s commitment to ensuring the reliability and efficiency of clean power infrastructure. Scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of San Diego, the 2024 edition promises to be a platform where stakeholders converge to discuss, showcase, and learn about the latest trends, challenges, and breakthroughs in operations and maintenance within the clean power sector.

Objectives of the O&M Show:

  1. Knowledge Exchange: One of the primary goals of the O&M Show is to facilitate knowledge exchange among professionals in the clean power industry. With sessions covering a wide array of topics, from predictive maintenance to data analytics and cybersecurity, participants can gain insights into the latest technologies and best practices that enhance the operational efficiency of clean energy systems.

  2. Networking Opportunities: The O&M Show serves as a hub for networking, bringing together key players in the clean power sector. Participants can engage in discussions, establish collaborations, and build relationships that are essential for the growth and success of the industry. From project developers to equipment suppliers and service providers, the event attracts a diverse range of stakeholders.

  3. Showcasing Innovations: The exhibition component of the O&M Show provides a platform for companies to showcase their latest innovations in operations and maintenance technologies. Attendees can explore cutting-edge solutions, ranging from advanced monitoring systems to robotics and artificial intelligence applications, that are shaping the future of clean energy maintenance.

Participants and Speakers:

The O&M Show 2024 is expected to draw a diverse and influential group of participants. Industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and technology providers will converge to share their expertise and contribute to the collective knowledge pool. Keynote speakers, representing both established companies and emerging startups, will address critical issues and offer insights into the evolving landscape of clean power operations and maintenance.

  1. Industry Leaders: CEOs and executives from prominent clean power companies will share their perspectives on the industry’s current state and future trajectory. Discussions may revolve around market trends, policy implications, and strategies for overcoming challenges in operations and maintenance.

  2. Policymakers: Policymakers play a crucial role in shaping the regulatory environment for the clean power sector. Representatives from government agencies will provide insights into the latest policies affecting operations and maintenance practices, fostering a better understanding of the broader regulatory landscape.

  3. Researchers and Innovators: Scientists, researchers, and innovators will present the latest advancements in technology and methodologies for improving the reliability and performance of clean energy systems. Topics may include developments in predictive maintenance, advanced monitoring, and the integration of emerging technologies like blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT).

  4. Service Providers: Companies offering operations and maintenance services, ranging from equipment maintenance to data analytics and cybersecurity, will showcase their capabilities. This diverse group of service providers plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of clean power infrastructure.

The San Diego Venue:

San Diego, known for its picturesque landscapes and forward-thinking environmental policies, serves as an ideal backdrop for the O&M Show. The city’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the goals of the clean power industry, creating a synergistic environment for meaningful discussions and collaboration. Participants can also explore San Diego’s clean energy initiatives, from solar-powered infrastructure to innovative waste management practices.

Anticipated Themes and Sessions:

This years O&M Show 2024 is expected to cover a wide range of themes and topics relevant to the clean power industry’s operations and maintenance sector. Some anticipated themes include:

  1. Predictive Maintenance: Exploring the latest advancements in predictive maintenance technologies that leverage data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to anticipate and address potential issues before they impact system performance.

  2. Cybersecurity in Clean Energy: Addressing the growing concerns around cybersecurity in the clean power sector and discussing strategies to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

  3. Asset Management and Optimization: Examining best practices for asset management, performance optimization, and extending the lifespan of clean energy assets.

  4. Innovations in Monitoring Technologies: Showcasing the latest innovations in monitoring technologies, including remote sensing, drones, and satellite imagery, for enhanced visibility and control over clean energy systems.

  5. Grid Integration and Transmission: Discussing the challenges and opportunities associated with grid integration, transmission, and the role of clean power in building a resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

  6. Workforce Development: Addressing the need for skilled professionals in the clean power industry and exploring initiatives for workforce development and training programs.

Conclusion:

The American Clean Power Association Operations and Maintenance Show 2024 in San Diego stands as a pivotal event that brings together the brightest minds and key players in the clean power industry. By fostering knowledge exchange, networking opportunities, and the showcasing of cutting-edge innovations, the event is poised to contribute significantly to the advancement of operations and maintenance practices within the clean energy sector. As the world continues its transition towards a sustainable future, the insights and collaborations forged at the O&M Show are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of the clean power industry for years to come.

 

Interested in training with STL USA? 

Click the link to find out more 

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Technical training and electrical safety in STL USA’s brand new facility

Technical training courses for wind technicians

Dedicated facilities for technical and electrical.

STL USA is constantly innovating the facilities we use for training courses to offer the best learning experience we can for our attendees. As it becomes increasingly relevant for training providers like STL USA to be in a position to support the massive sector growth we are experiencing this puts a clear emphasis on the facilities we have and the broad range of training we offer. Launching this year STL USA’s wind tech training facilities at North 1st Abilene are dedicated to skills, competency, and electrical safety. This now allows us to run all our safety courses from our HQ, right over the street, and all our technical courses from our new site.

From a facilities perspective, we can shape the environment more to the needs of the student in that particular setting as opposed to trying to do everything in one place.

The new wind tech training facilities cover 3 dedicated classrooms and an 8,000 sq ft shop area with bolting, torquing, electrical stations, a full gearbox, and various other major components allowing students to get hands-on with their training.

Electrical safety training to standard NFPA 70E

One of the primary courses running from the new STL USA facilities is our Qualified Electrical worker course covering low and high voltage training to standard NFPA 70E. This is a 2-day face to face course which has been vetted and approved by major wind OEMs. This course is now becoming a must have for wind technicians. To accomodate demand STL USA are running courses every week.

If you need to book a course click here.

Skills and competency

Whilst we are not denying the importance of industry certification, particularly GWO, it’s becoming increasingly clear that employers in wind need the support of third party training organisations to deliver skills and competency training for their new hires and existing people. STL USA is rapidly increasing it’s portfolio of courses in this area.

Empoyers can choose from 3 options:

  • Basic Intro
  • Basic Intro +
  • Bespoke training
The basic intro packages are designed to offer a simple plug and play solution for those who require a good technical grounding for new hire technicians, covering:
  • AC/DC basics
  • Motor controls
  • Schematics
  • Digital multi-meter
  • Basic troubleshooting
  • MCE – Up tower troubleshooting/training (gearbox & generator) + Only
  • Platform specific converter  + Only
  • Boroscope + Only
Bespoke solutions allow employers to choose from a range of over 30 skills based modules, aligned to the ACP micro-credentials and GWO frameworks for new technicians. These courses can be taken in conjunction with GWO and Electrical safety certification to quickly get technicians up to speed.
 
 For the full range of modules click, here.

Interested in training with STL USA? 

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Winds of Change: A Look at the Wind Energy Industry in the USA in 2024

A Look at the Wind Energy Industry in the USA in 2024

A look ahead to 2024.

In 2024, the wind energy industry in the United States is poised for significant growth and transformation, driven by a combination of technological advancements, policy support, and increasing environmental consciousness. As the nation continues its pursuit of sustainable and cleaner energy sources, wind power has emerged as a key player in the transition to a greener future. However, like any burgeoning industry, the wind energy sector faces its fair share of challenges.

Challenges Facing the Wind Energy Industry:

Intermittency and Reliability:

One of the primary challenges facing the wind energy industry is the intermittent nature of wind. Unlike traditional energy sources, wind power generation is contingent upon favorable weather conditions. Calm periods can lead to a drop in energy production, which necessitates a robust energy storage and transmission infrastructure to mitigate fluctuations and ensure a consistent power supply.

 
Grid Integration:

Integrating wind power into the existing electrical grid poses another hurdle. The variable nature of wind energy requires sophisticated grid management systems to balance supply and demand effectively. Upgrading and expanding the grid infrastructure to accommodate the increasing share of renewable energy is an ongoing challenge that demands substantial investments and coordination between various stakeholders.

Land Use and Environmental Concerns:

The expansion of wind farms requires vast tracts of land, potentially encroaching on natural habitats and raising concerns about environmental impact. Striking a balance between renewable energy development and environmental conservation is crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry. Innovative approaches, such as offshore wind farms, can help address land use challenges while tapping into untapped wind resources.

Regulatory and Policy Uncertainties:

The wind energy sector is highly influenced by government policies and regulations. Uncertainties surrounding tax credits, incentives, and other regulatory measures can hinder investment and project development. A stable and supportive policy environment is essential to attract investments and foster the growth of the wind energy industry.

 

Anticipated Growth and Developments:

Technological Advancements:

The wind energy industry is experiencing rapid technological advancements that promise to address some of its inherent challenges. Improved turbine designs, enhanced energy storage solutions, and sophisticated forecasting technologies are contributing to increased efficiency and reliability. As research and development efforts continue, we can expect more innovative solutions that will make wind power a more dependable and cost-effective energy source.

Offshore Wind Expansion:

The expansion of offshore wind projects is a notable trend in the USA’s wind energy landscape. Offshore wind farms have the advantage of tapping into stronger and more consistent wind resources while minimizing land use conflicts. With several projects in the pipeline and supportive policies at the state and federal levels, offshore wind is poised to become a major contributor to the nation’s renewable energy portfolio.

Economic Opportunities and Job Creation:

The growth of the wind energy industry brings along economic opportunities and job creation. From manufacturing and installation to maintenance and support services, the sector has the potential to create a substantial number of jobs, supporting local economies. This positive economic impact enhances the industry’s appeal to policymakers and communities alike.

STL USA’s WindStart program is perfectly positioned to make it cheap and easy for anyone to get into the wind energy industry. Click for more information, here.

 

Investment and Financing:

Despite regulatory uncertainties, the wind energy sector is attracting significant investments. The decreasing cost of wind energy, coupled with a growing awareness of the environmental and economic benefits, is making wind projects increasingly attractive to investors. As financial mechanisms and investment frameworks mature, the industry is likely to experience sustained growth.

Conclusion:

The wind energy industry in the United States is at a critical juncture in 2024, navigating both challenges and opportunities. While the intermittent nature of wind and grid integration remain hurdles, technological advancements, policy support, and a growing commitment to sustainability are propelling the industry forward. As the USA continues its transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, the wind energy sector is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s energy landscape in the years to come. With concerted efforts from policymakers, industry players, and the public, the winds of change blowing through the United States promise a brighter, greener future.

 

Interested in training with STL USA? 

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Solving the Wind Energy Sector Recruitment Challenge in the US

Wind Energy Sector Recruitment

Navigating the Winds of Change.

As the United States continues to invest in clean and sustainable energy sources, the wind energy sector is poised for unprecedented growth in the next decade. However, with this promising future comes a significant challenge – the recruitment and training of skilled professionals to meet the industry’s escalating demands. To ensure a seamless transition to a greener tomorrow, addressing the wind energy sector’s recruitment challenge is imperative. This blog post explores key aspects such as funding, training initiatives, and strategic hiring approaches that can help overcome this challenge.

Funding initiatives

One of the primary hurdles in expanding the wind energy workforce is securing adequate funding for training programs and educational initiatives. To address this, collaboration between government bodies, private sector stakeholders, and educational institutions is crucial. Government incentives and grants should be made available to support the development of training programs specifically tailored to the wind energy sector. Programs such as the Inflation Reduction Act are a great step in the right direction.

Moreover, wind energy companies can establish partnerships with universities and vocational institutions to create scholarship programs and research grants. These initiatives not only attract potential talent but also contribute to the advancement of wind energy technology. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, the industry can ensure a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals.

 
Training the next generation

To meet the growing demand for skilled workers, it is essential to design comprehensive wind technician training programs that equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and practical skills. Wind energy companies should collaborate with educational institutions to develop specialized curricula that cover areas such as wind turbine technology, maintenance, and safety protocols.

Internship programs and apprenticeships can provide hands-on experience, allowing trainees to work alongside seasoned professionals. This real-world exposure not only enhances their skills but also provides a pathway for recruitment. Companies should actively engage with local communities to identify and nurture talent, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the industry.

Strategic Hiring Approaches

As the wind energy sector expands, companies need to adopt strategic hiring approaches to attract and retain top talent. Here are some key considerations:

a. Diversity and Inclusion: Actively promoting diversity and inclusion is essential for fostering innovation and ensuring a well-rounded workforce. Companies should implement policies that encourage the recruitment of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women and underrepresented minorities.

b. Collaboration with Educational Institutions: Establishing strong ties with universities, community colleges, and vocational schools is crucial for identifying potential candidates early in their educational journey. Wind energy companies can contribute to curriculum development, provide guest lectures, and offer internships to create a direct talent pipeline.

c. Competitive Compensation Packages: To attract the best talent, wind energy companies must offer competitive compensation packages. Beyond salary, benefits such as professional development opportunities, health and wellness programs, and flexible work arrangements can enhance the overall appeal of the organization.

d. Embracing Technology: The wind energy sector is evolving rapidly, with technological advancements shaping the landscape. Companies should actively seek individuals with a passion for innovation and a willingness to adapt to emerging technologies. Investing in continuous training for existing employees also ensures that the workforce remains up-to-date with the latest developments.

Looking for roles in wind energy or a great hiring solution? Check on windtech.careers our partner recruitment site.

In conclusion, as the wind energy sector in the United States scales over the next decade, solving the recruitment challenge is paramount for sustained growth and success. By focusing on funding initiatives, developing robust training programs, and adopting strategic hiring approaches, the industry can build a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and meeting the demands of a cleaner and more sustainable future. Through collaboration between government entities, educational institutions, and private sector stakeholders, the wind energy sector can overcome recruitment challenges and harness the full potential of wind power for the benefit of the planet and its inhabitants.

Interested in training with STL USA? 

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Outsource training solutions in wind

outsource training solutions in wind

Helping supply chain scale.

Whilst it’s something STL USA has been involved in for many years we very rarely talk about the outsource training we deliver on behalf of others in the industry. However, given the focus is squarely on how we scale going into 2024 we thought it was about time we explained a little more about what this service is, why it’s important for our industries growth and how we deliver it.

So what are outsource training solutions?

Simply really. It means STL USA deliver training for other companies in wind on their behalf. Normally it’s as a result of growth and a lack of internal resources to deliver training courses to new customers. That’s where STL USA steps in. With a very broad industry technical knowledge, large scale facilities and highly competent teaching staff STL USA is well positioned to help others scale, offer great customer training and cement customer relationships.

 
The importance of good training

We all know how fast the sector is growing in the USA and keeping up with this demand is hard enough for suppliers. Factoring in training and education is just another challenge facing companies and one that is often hard to keep up with.

However the importance of good training is a key aspect of customer support, saving time, money, and building better relationships.

What kind of training can STL USA deliver and how does it work?

STL USA have a broad skill set that allows the delivery of a variety of skill, competence and product based training. Whether that’s using a specific tool for a specific task or delivering a product training for a complicated piece of equipment like a boroscope the teams braod technical knowledge and years of field expereince allow them to quickly grasp therequirement, undertsnad learning objectives and perform the training course to high standards.

In practice most of STL USA’s outsource training customers already have training courses they simply don’t have the resources to deliver all of their training requirements. That’s when they look to STL USA to give them scale in their own training. After an initial train the trainer and sign-off STL USA can then deliver the course on the customers behalf.

It’s really that simple.

How would i know this is right for me?

That’s also pretty easy. Simply ask yourself a few questions to figure out if you need to outsource some or all of your training:

  • Is my company growing with lots of new customers?
  • Are my current trainers or training team getting overwhelemed and are struggling to meet demand?
  • Is this having a detrimental impact on my customer relationships?
  • Are we looking at losing new customers because we can’t adequately train them?

If you answer yes to any of these questions then it’s probably a sign to look for a partner who can help and not let training become a roadblock for your business growth.

Contact us below if you would like to find out more about how we can help.

Interested in using STL USA to deliver your training 

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Bespoke training for wind technicians

Bespoke training for wind technicians

Building flexible training.

STL USA are delighted to introduce Bespoke Wind Technician Technical training. This program sits alongside our two standard technical options, Basic Intro and Basic Intro +. The difference is that bespoke training gives you the flexibility to build a prgram that meets the specific needs of your workforce. Program options include both industry certification, such as GWO and NFPA 70E alongside a huge choice of technical competencies that align to ACP, ANSI and GWO frameworks for wind technicians. That’s super important as the industry evolves becasue these frameworks allow skills to be standardised, which ultimately means cost savings for employers not having to train more than one version of the same skill to meet a customer requirement.

What are the courses?

This is really down to you!

The bespoke nature of these training solutions allow you to build your own program from a huge list of module options that should cover your needs. If they don’t STL USA can tap into its partner network and build out teaching knowledge to deliver something truly unique for you.

Bespoke training module options
Wind skills
 
Introduction to Turbine Generators
Oscilloscopes
Failure Analysis
Maintaining Bearings
Precision Measuring Instruments
Hydraulic System Operation
Hydraulic Pumps, Pumping Principles and Accumulators
Pressure Controls
Directional and Flow Controls
Hydraulic Actuators
Fundamentals of Lubrication
Lubrication Maintenance
Introduction to Mechanical Print Reading
Lines Used in Mechanical Print Reading
Dimensions in Mechanical Print Reading
Mechanical Seals
Hand Operated Equipment
Forklifts and Cranes
Principles and Practices of Predictive Maintenance
Vibration Analysis
Lubricant and Trend Analysis
Techniques for Extending Bearing Life
Principles of Reverse Double Dial Alignment
Reverse Double Dial Alignment Procedure
Pressure Measurement
Flow Measurement
Temperature Measurement
Level Measurement
Calibration Principles
Calibrating Pressure and Differential Pressure Instruments
Calibrating Flow Instruments
Calibrating Level Instruments
Pneumatic and Hydraulic Test Devices
Electronic Test Devices
Calibrating Meteorological Instrumentation
 Boroscope

Foundational skills

AC Motor Theory
AC Motor Maintenance
DC Motor Theory
DC Motor Maintenance
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Limit Switches
Switches, Coils, and Overloads
Troubleshooting Electrical Control Circuits
Inverters: Operation and Maintenance

Multimeters
Ammeters, Meggers and Wheatstone Bridge
Electrical Schematics
Electrical Diagrams
Principles of Operation
Interpreting Ladder Logic
Programmable Controllers for Analog Control
Introduction to Transformers
Transformer operations and maintenance

Hand Tools
Torque and Tensioning
Ladders and Scaffolding

Distributed Control Fundamentals
Maintaining Distributed Control Systems
Electronic Controllers
Calibrating Temperature Instruments
Instruments In Hazardous Environments

Safety 

NFPA 70E low and high voltage

GWO Control of Hazardous Energies

 

How do i build my bespoke training?

 The STL USA client team are well versed in building out solutions for clients. Bespoke Wind Technician Training is no different.

 The steps taken to build a program include:

  • Identifying who needs training – new hires, existing technicians, specialist teams?
  • Where does training need to take place – onsite, at an STL USA facility, online
  • Implementing a process for maintaining skills and updating knowledge – building in continual improvement
  • Defining a schedule – what modules apply to which technicians and when, where and how are they delivered
Once established a pilot is then scheduled to ensure that any customer spcific requirements are included into the course and that’s it, training can start.
 
STL USA believe this modular approach to building bespoke training is the next step in the development of workforces within wind. It allows customers to reduce costs, develop a skilled workforce and truly differentiate themselves on competency.
 
Speak to an STL USA team member about this via the link below. 

 

Interested in bespoke training with STL USA

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GWO Bundle training courses

GWO Bundle training courses

Build additional value into your GWO training.

As the market is ramping up hiring and growth STL USA has worked hard to develop a range of GWO Bundle training courses. GWO Bundle training combines the well know GWO courses with a range of additional certification. 

What are the courses?

Courses include

  1. GWO BST & Confined Space Awareness
  2. GWO ART & Confined space rescue
  3. GWO BTT & Schematics
  4. GWO CoHE & NFPA &70E
  5. GWO Lift & 3s Lift User
Does this mean more training time?

In most cases no. We’ve taken the requirements from each part of the bundle and created a combined curricullum that meets both. Crucially we’ve done this in a way that requires no additional training time for the technician. This means more value and more skills and knowledge for participants.

Where can I take these courses?

Bundle courses can be taken at an STL USA facility or onsite at your wind farm of office location. Don’t have a tower? No problem we can come to you with our mobile training trailer and offer you a complete training experience at your site.

What about cost savings?

We know technicians need to acquire more than just GWO certificates. That’s why we’ve bundled GWO training with a range of universally popular training courses. Like GWO Control of Hazardous energies and NFPA 70E electrical safety training. Both are must-haves for technicians in the field. 

By creating a curriculum that meets the requirements of both we’ve been able to keep contact time down to purely the GWO timeframe. That means no additional training days and no more additional overheads.

Course delivery can be done in a variety of formats that combine both digital and face-to-face formats. This is a great way to further reduce time away from site by taking the theory elements of the courses online in advance of purely practical face-to-face training to complete the course.

Interested in training with STL USA

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Keeping costs down, wind tech mobile training solutions for 2024

mobile wind tech training

Train onsite, save time and money.

As the requirements for certifications increase across the industry, it’s never been more vital that training solutions are sensitive to costs and time impacts for employers.

With this in mind, STL USA is expanding its mobile/onsite training offer for 2024 on the back of a highly successful series of onsite GWO training courses delivered across the US this year.

Why train with STL USA?

The STL USA team has years of wind tech teaching experience, plus they have all spent time in the field doing the same jobs as the technicians they teach. STL USA is at the forefront of wind tech training, often the first to bring new courses to the industry. STL USA is trusted by the biggest companies in wind to deliver. The team has trained onsite for people like GE and Siemens throughout 2023.

Why train onsite?

Onsite training is a great option if you have access to a wind site. You can cut out the need for travel and accomodation costs if your techs are local to the site, and because your team remains onsite they are available if they are needed.

How does it work?

The STL USA team can visit your site with a mobile training rig for rescue and working at height modules, the rest of the course can run in a meeting room or similar that will serve as a classroom, and that’s it.

Add your site to our 2024 plans

Fill in the form to add your site to our 2024 onsite plans. There is no obligation to book training. Once we have a draft schedule in place this will be sent to you for consideration.

Unlocking the Potential of Wind Energy: Preparing College Students for the Booming Workforce

Unlocking the Potential of Wind Energy

Working together for a bright future for wind

The wind energy industry in the United States is on the brink of a major transformation. As the country shifts towards sustainable and renewable energy sources to combat climate change and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, the demand for skilled workers in the wind energy sector is poised to explode. This growing demand presents a unique challenge and opportunity for colleges and universities across the nation. How can these institutions prepare their students to enter the workforce of this booming industry, which promises a brighter, greener future for the United States?

The Wind Energy Boom in the USA

The United States has witnessed a remarkable expansion in wind energy production in recent years. With a rapidly increasing number of wind farms across the country, wind energy has become a major contributor to the nation’s energy mix. According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), the wind industry has created over 120,000 jobs, and wind energy capacity has grown by 6% in 2020 alone. This remarkable growth is largely attributed to the renewable energy initiatives that aim to achieve 100% clean energy in various states.

The reasons behind this surge are multifaceted. Wind energy is not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable. It offers a means of generating power with minimal greenhouse gas emissions, making it a critical part of the clean energy landscape. Additionally, the U.S. government has provided incentives and tax credits for wind energy projects, further driving investment in the sector. This combination of environmental responsibility and economic incentives positions wind energy as a powerhouse of opportunity for the job market.

The Skills Gap in Wind Energy

While the wind energy industry is poised to expand exponentially, there is a significant challenge to overcome: the skills gap. As the demand for skilled workers surges, there is a scarcity of qualified individuals to fill these positions. The skills required for careers in the wind energy sector are specialized and demand a unique blend of knowledge and hands-on experience.

Roles in wind energy include wind turbine technicians, engineers, project managers, environmental consultants, and more. These positions require skills in areas such as mechanical and electrical engineering, data analysis, project management, environmental science, and renewable energy technologies. With the specialized nature of these roles, colleges and universities must address the gap by developing targeted programs that equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge.

How Colleges Can Prepare Students for the Wind Energy Workforce?

To address the growing demand for skilled workers in the wind energy sector, colleges and universities need to take proactive steps. Here are some key strategies they can employ:

Tailored Curriculum: Colleges should develop and offer specialized programs and courses in renewable energy and wind technology. These programs should provide students with a strong foundation in the principles of wind energy, including wind turbine technology, energy generation, and environmental impact assessments.

Hands-On Experience: Practical training is crucial in preparing students for the workforce. Collaborations with wind energy companies, internships, and apprenticeships can offer students the hands-on experience they need to thrive in the field. Colleges can also consider establishing their own wind energy labs or partnerships with existing facilities.

Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with wind energy companies and industry associations can help colleges stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and job requirements. These partnerships can also lead to research opportunities and job placement programs. A number of institutions already partner with STL USA to help deliver industry accreditations that improve student’s employability in the sector.

Renewable Energy Research: Encouraging research in renewable energy and wind technology can not only contribute to the field but also provide students with opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving. By working on cutting-edge projects, students can gain valuable experience and expertise.

Inclusivity and Diversity: To ensure a well-rounded and diverse workforce in the wind energy sector, colleges should focus on inclusivity and diversity in their programs. Encouraging underrepresented groups to pursue careers in renewable energy is essential for building a workforce that reflects the broader population.

Continuing Education: Wind energy is an ever-evolving field, with new technologies and practices emerging regularly. Colleges should offer continuing education and professional development programs to help current industry professionals stay up-to-date and adapt to changing requirements.

Sustainability Education: Given the environmental nature of wind energy, it is essential for colleges to incorporate sustainability education into their programs. Students should understand not only how wind energy works but also the broader environmental implications and benefits of renewable energy sources.

The role of colleges and universities in preparing students for the booming wind energy workforce is pivotal. As the United States continues its transition towards sustainable energy sources, educational institutions have a unique opportunity to nurture the talent needed to drive this transformation. By offering specialized programs, fostering industry partnerships, and promoting hands-on experience, colleges can equip their students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the growing wind energy sector. In doing so, they play a vital role in accelerating the nation’s transition to a greener and more sustainable future.

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