Category: STL USA team

2025 wind tech training requirements

The Evolving Role of Wind Technicians: Implications and considerations for 2025

The wind energy sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by global efforts to transition to renewable energy. As one of the fastest-growing sources of energy, wind power plays a critical role in achieving carbon neutrality. Alongside this growth, the role of wind technicians—those responsible for maintaining, repairing, and optimizing wind turbines—has transformed dramatically.

Technological advancements and increasing turbine complexity have fundamentally reshaped the requirements of the role. Looking ahead to 2025, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are setting high expectations for their workforce, demanding advanced skills, multidisciplinary expertise, and a commitment to safety. Recognizing these needs, STL USA has launched an expanded program of specialized training courses aimed at building skills and competency among wind technicians, ensuring they are prepared for the industry’s evolving demands.

The Shifting Role of Wind Technicians

Technological Evolution in Wind Turbines

Over the past decade, wind turbines have become larger, smarter, and more efficient. Offshore turbines now reach staggering heights, with blade spans exceeding 100 meters and individual turbines capable of producing over 15 MW of power. These advancements have introduced new challenges for technicians, who must work with increasingly sophisticated systems.

Modern turbines are equipped with advanced sensors, real-time monitoring tools, and AI-driven analytics. These technologies optimize turbine performance but require wind technicians to adopt new skill sets. Proficiency in data analysis, remote diagnostics, and control system troubleshooting has become just as important as traditional mechanical repair skills.

Integration with Broader Energy Systems

Wind farms are no longer isolated power generators. They are increasingly integrated with battery storage systems, substations, and advanced grid management tools. This evolution has expanded the scope of a wind technician’s work to include tasks like managing energy storage systems, performing substation maintenance, and understanding grid interconnection processes.

Emphasis on Safety and Efficiency

As turbines grow taller and more powerful, safety risks have also increased. Wind technicians work in extreme environments—whether climbing 100-meter towers, operating offshore, or navigating high-voltage systems. This makes safety training a critical aspect of the role. Beyond ensuring personal safety, technicians must also focus on efficiency, minimizing downtime for turbines to optimize energy output.

OEM Expectations for 2025

OEMs are rapidly adapting their workforce expectations to meet industry advancements. In 2025, they will require wind technicians to possess:

Advanced Technical Skills: OEMs are prioritizing expertise in electrical systems, data-driven diagnostics, and software management, in addition to traditional mechanical skills.
Specialized Training: As turbines and supporting systems grow more complex, OEMs expect technicians to complete specialized training programs tailored to their roles.
Multidisciplinary Competency: Wind technicians must adapt to diverse tasks, including substation operations, energy storage maintenance, and turbine troubleshooting.
Safety Expertise: Safety will remain paramount. Technicians must be proficient in fall protection, self-rescue, and evacuation procedures.
Adaptability to Offshore Environments: The offshore wind sector is booming, and technicians will need training to handle the unique challenges posed by offshore operations, including harsh weather and remote locations.

A great example of this is that from next year, a number of large OEMs will be mandating the GWO Control of Hazardous Energies (CoHE) course for all their wind technicians. At STL USA, we believe this is the right appraoch, highlighting the importance of high quality electrical safety training and accompanying skills and competencies that this training gives wind techs. We run our GWO CoHE training courses on an on-demand basis, booking out weeks in advance, working wth our customers to ensure their workforce is best placed to meet the demands of the job and the objectives of their employer.

STL USA: Preparing Wind Technicians for the Future

In response to these growing demands, STL USA has emerged as a leader in wind technician training, offering a robust program of specialized courses designed to enhance skills, competency, and safety. With a commitment to preparing the workforce for the challenges of tomorrow, their courses are tailored to the real-world needs of wind technicians and aligned with industry standards.

New Courses for 2025

STL USA’s 2025 curriculum introduces several cutting-edge courses that address both current and emerging needs in the wind energy sector:

Competent Person Equipment (PPE and Device Inspection): This course trains technicians to inspect and maintain personal protective equipment, ensuring compliance with safety standards and extending equipment lifespans.
Competent Person Fall Protection: This training focuses on advanced fall protection techniques, enabling technicians to work confidently at great heights while mitigating risks.
Climber Training: Designed for technicians who regularly climb turbine towers, this course emphasizes safe climbing techniques, physical conditioning, and equipment use.
Evacuation & Self-Rescue Wind (Solo X/Other): Technicians learn self-rescue and evacuation procedures for emergency scenarios, such as turbine fires or structural failures.
Evacuation & Advanced Rescue (Red Pro/Other): Building on basic rescue training, this course equips technicians with advanced skills for complex emergency situations, such as rescuing incapacitated colleagues.
BOP Substation/PMT Switching: Focused on substation maintenance and switching operations, this course bridges the gap between turbine maintenance and broader grid management.
BOP Substation with Practical: This hands-on course provides technicians with real-world experience in substation operations, offering a deeper understanding of high-voltage systems.
BOP Substation Theory Only: A theoretical counterpart to the practical course, this training focuses on the principles of substation design, operation, and maintenance.
PMT Switching: This specialized course trains technicians in high-voltage switching procedures, emphasizing safety and operational efficiency.

The Importance of Specialized Training

Specialized training is no longer optional in the wind energy sector. As the industry grows more complex, technicians must continuously update their skills to stay competitive and ensure safety. STL USA’s courses address this need by:

Improving Competency: Comprehensive training programs build the technical and problem-solving skills technicians need to excel.
Enhancing Safety: By focusing on fall protection, evacuation, and high-voltage systems, these courses empower technicians to work safely in challenging environments.
Supporting Career Growth: With OEMs demanding specialized expertise, technicians who complete advanced training are well-positioned for career advancement.
Meeting Industry Standards: STL USA’s courses align with international safety protocols, ensuring participants meet the requirements set by GWO and other governing bodies.

Conclusion

The role of a wind technician is more dynamic and demanding than ever before. As turbines grow in size and complexity and as wind farms integrate with broader energy systems, technicians must adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape. By 2025, OEMs will require their workforce to possess advanced technical skills, multidisciplinary expertise, and a strong commitment to safety.

Through its comprehensive training programs, including new courses for 2025, Safety Technology USA is playing a pivotal role in preparing technicians for these challenges. By focusing on skill-building, competency, and safety, Safety Technology ensures that wind technicians are equipped to meet the demands of the future, contributing to the growth and success of the renewable energy sector.

Interested in electrical safety training courses?

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New Pad Mount Transformer

A new addition to the STL USA training facilities

Meet the new Pad Mounted Transformer

STL USA took delivery today of the latest addition to our technical and electrical safety site, a brand new pad mounted transformer. This fantastic piece of kit will drastically improve the range and scope of the electrical safety courses on the STL USA roster.

Courses that will use the pad mounted transformer include:

1. BOP Substation/PMT Switching: A New Offering for 2025

The Basic Balance of Plant (BOP) Substation/PMT Switching Training is designed to equip participants with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to work safely in substation environments. This course emphasizes safety protocols, equipment familiarity, and the fundamental principles of medium and high-voltage systems. It also introduces key concepts such as ANSI and IEEE naming conventions, inspection practices, and switching order basics. While this training provides a solid foundation, workers must still receive task-specific approval from a qualified professional and employer validation before undertaking independent tasks.

Course Highlights

Safe substation access and equipment familiarization.
Principles of high and medium voltage protection.
Introduction to electrical schematics, including ANSI/IEEE standards.
Conducting basic substation inspections.
Switching order fundamentals.
Written assessments and hands-on exercises for switching orders.
Practical application: PMT switching, energy state verification, and personal grounding procedures.
Substation walk-throughs with authorized personnel.
Optional practical switching in the substation (per client request).

Why This Training Matters

BOP Substation/PMT Switching training is critical for electrical workers managing medium-to-high voltage systems. A simple error in switching procedures can have dire consequences, including injuries, asset damage, and prolonged downtime. Additionally, substations and transformers form the backbone of power distribution systems, essential for uninterrupted operations. By equipping workers with a deep understanding of substation and transformer functionality, this course ensures operational reliability, safety, and reduced risk of system failures. This training is more than a technical requirement—it’s a commitment to safeguarding personnel and assets.

Learn more about the course here

2. Control of Hazardous Energies (CoHE) Course: Essential for Wind Technicians

Managing hazardous energies is a critical skill for technicians working on machinery where stored or active energy poses a threat. The Control of Hazardous Energies (CoHE) course, although not currently a mandatory GWO certification, is increasingly recognized as indispensable for wind energy professionals. STL USA champions this training as essential for anyone working on turbines, especially up-tower technicians. Industry trends suggest that leading OEMs will soon include CoHE as a required qualification, emphasizing its growing importance.

Course Content

Understanding Hazardous Energies: This module explains the types of energy (electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical) encountered in turbines and their potential risks.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): A comprehensive guide to de-energizing and securing equipment before maintenance or inspection.
Risk Assessments and Safe Practices: Participants learn to conduct risk evaluations, select appropriate PPE, and follow strict safety protocols to mitigate hazards.

Why It’s Crucial

Wind turbines are complex machines with numerous energy sources, from electrical circuits to hydraulic systems. Proper CoHE training empowers technicians to handle these high-risk environments confidently, preventing accidents and reducing downtime. Beyond routine safety measures, this course instills a culture of proactive risk management, demonstrating a commitment to safety that benefits both technicians and employers.

Bonus Insight

You can combine the GWO CoHE course with NFPA 70E training for a comprehensive approach to electrical and hazardous energy safety.

Learn more about the course here

3. Qualified Electrical Worker (QEW) Training Aligned with NFPA 70E Standards

As wind turbines grow larger and more powerful, the electrical risks for technicians increase significantly. The Qualified Electrical Worker (QEW) course, combined with NFPA 70E certification, is tailored to equip technicians with advanced electrical safety knowledge. This training addresses the unique challenges of working with electrical systems in wind turbines and emphasizes the safe handling of both energized and de-energized equipment.

Course Content

Understanding NFPA 70E Standards: Participants learn the guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association, including arc flash protection, shock hazard analysis, and appropriate PPE selection.
Electrical Hazard Identification: Training focuses on recognizing electrical risks, assessing hazards, and implementing preventative measures.
Safe Work Practices: Technicians gain practical knowledge of lockout/tagout procedures, maintaining safe approach distances, and adhering to best practices for working around electrical systems.

Why This Training Is Vital

Electricity remains one of the most significant hazards on wind farms, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities if mishandled. The QEW with NFPA 70E certification equips technicians to minimize these risks effectively. It not only ensures compliance with safety standards but also enhances employability by qualifying workers for advanced roles. Employers also benefit from reduced incident rates and a workforce skilled in maintaining safe operations in high-risk environments.

For wind technicians, this course represents a step toward greater competency, safety, and career advancement in the evolving wind energy sector.

Learn more about the course here

Interested in electrical safety training courses?

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STL USA – Meet the team pt2

Meet the real MVPs of STL USA

Last week, we shared the first half of ‘Meet the Team’, giving you the opportunity to get to know some of the incredible people that make STL USA so great. We are so very proud of the people who work for us, we truly believe that they are the heart and soul of our business and what makes us such a success.

So, welcome to part 2, where we bring you more of the stories about our people, their backgrounds, passions and what drives them to play such a strong supporting role in pushing the wind sector on to bigger and brighter things.

Cody Ramos – Trainer

“I was born here in Abilene, TX and went to Wylie High School graduating in 2006. In 2014, with no experience, I was offered a job as a glass worker at Binswanger Glass here in Abilene. It was there that I got my first real love for safety. I took my first ever OSHA class with them for General Construction and it opened my eyes to the different hazards and safety aspects of work that I never knew up until that point. After 4 years a friend of mine called me and said that his company Airway Services based out of San Angelo, TX needed people for a project in Colorado. It was a tough decision as me and my wife already had two kids at the time and I would have to move to Colorado for 10 months. I feel like I was called to take a risk and as soon as I said yes it all fell together perfectly and the following Monday I was a Wind Technician. Since then I can truly say I’d found a career as a travelling tech for Airway for 2½ years.

In May 2020 my growing family commitments pushed me to look at options that allowed me not to be on the road anymore. A training position opened up within the company and I applied and in October 2020 I officially became a safety instructor and haven’t looked back. I have been instructing now for 4 years, the last 10 months have been with STL USA here in Abilene. I feel this is a path I’ve been working on towards since I was in college.

For me, the things that set STL USA apart are that being an independent training provider, we get to influence the entire industry from your big OEM companies to the small start up companies and set them on the right path because all of us are ex techs who’ve lived the life, been 300ft in the air rolling around in the oil in the 120 degree heat of Texas summers or the blistering below 0 temperatures of Minnesota winters. When I train you to follow a procedure or to wear that piece of PPE I can tell you from first-hand experience why that needs to happen.

My biggest influence to becoming a trainer was my first ever instructor in wind. Cory Sowell, whom still works at Airway, probably pushed me harder than anyone. He showed me what it meant to be a true mentor and it’s not to fail someone because they see something differently than you do. It’s to make sure each and every one of your students gets 100% from you so they can give 100% back to their work and ultimately with the knowledge we give them as instructors as they carry it on, we save lives just by planting seeds.

I believe the driving factor behind the success of STL USA as an organization isn’t the badass training, the facilities, or the crude oil coffee that Brandon makes every morning; it’s the people working together to build a culture that we convey into the classes that we teach. We banter, sometimes we gripe and get frustrated, and sometimes we are so busy that we don’t get to speak much. But at any given moment, any one of us could text or call any of the others, whether it be about work or a personal issue, and I guarantee you someone here will be on the other end of that phone because at the end of the day what really matters are the people were around.”

Dave Baucom – Senior Account Manager Business Development

“I graduated High School from a small town in Ohio, Shelby Senior High in 1999, and went on to receive my Associate of Science (AS) from Ohio State University in Columbus Ohio for Business/Corporate Communications.

From there I got into the Automotive industry, starting out in sales and worked my way up to General Manager/Sales Director of a store, Finance Manager, Sales Manager and Sales Director.

I have always had a passion for and wouldn’t be the great salesperson I am today without all the hard work and determination over 24 years of sales and building relationships.

The reason I came to STL USA is because of my wife Kayce Baucom. To be honest I never really thought about doing sales for Wind before. However after I learned all about it and realized the exceptional work STL USA was doing, I applied for a sales role. I believe that with my knowledge of sales and building relationships with clients, I would be the perfect fit for this role. I believe in STL USA’s goal to become the best training center in North America. What I believe sets us above others is our trainers, we have an excellent team of trainers who are super helpful with students, they make learning fun. I have only been with STL USA for a few months, but I have always gotten excellent feedback from our clients about how wonderful the courses were and how knowledgeable the instructors are. I believe that we at STL USA are creating a powerful team that will help us grow in the future.

My wife and I are big outdoors people and things I enjoy outside of work are hiking, fishing, kayaking, biking, hunting and travelling. My bucket list of places to visit re Norway, Sweden, London, Ireland and Greece.”

Keyon Demas – Trainer

“I was born & raised in Alabama. I graduated high school and then attended Trenholm Technical College for diesel mechanic school. I worked in that field briefly before deciding to start my career in the wind industry. In 2007 I made the decision to start this journey and I was contracted for 9 and a half years, working with different manufacturers doing O&M support, Commissioning, TFA, Quality, etc..

Then in 2016, I was hired on by a major manufacturer of new construction where I worked for 5 years on 12 new projects. I finally settled down in Texas on a site for Troubleshooting and Services for 1 and a half years. I have always enjoyed my job in the field and the knowledge I obtained, but knew I wanted to give back to the industry that has given me so much and to further my career in a different direction. I was offered a position with STL USA in 2023 and decided this would be where I could use what I learned from my diverse wind industry experience and put it to use here at STL USA. I enjoy working with the team here, working together to bring all types of field experience from Safety to Technical into the classroom. We strive on the importance of safety, because at the end of the day what matters most is the safety of all technicians.

My wife and I enjoy the outdoors (hunting, fishing, ATVs, dirt bikes, horses, and travelling with my family. We have two boys and I love spending time with them and coaching their little league football and baseball teams.”

Jeremy McKelvain – WindStart Program Lead

“I’m a 20-year Air Force veteran with a deep passion for mentoring, training and solving problems. Over the years, I’ve found great satisfaction in helping others grow and pushing through challenging situations, whether it was in a high-stakes mission or day-to-day operations. When I transitioned out of the military, I knew I wanted to stay in a role that allowed me to use my skills and experience to make a meaningful impact—and that’s what led me to the wind energy sector and ultimately to STL USA.

What drew me to this field was not just the exciting challenges but also the opportunity to be part of a growing industry that contributes to a more sustainable future. The energy and innovation in this field are infectious and the training and support from STL USA are world-class. The level of care STL USA puts into ensuring each student is prepared, confident and safe is unparalleled.

What I love most about my job is mentoring future technicians. It reminds me of my days in the Air Force when I would help guide younger airmen and watch them develop into confident and capable professionals. The least favourite part? Probably the paperwork—but it’s all part of the process!

One funny story that comes to mind is all of the funny looks we get when carrying Manny, our mannequin, into career fairs. Most people get startled and then become very curious. A lot of time people think he is a real person until they get closer.

Outside of work, I’m an avid family man. I love watching my daughter play sports and spending time with my new grandson. One of my big goals is to be dropped off in Alaska and camp for 3 to 4 days to see if I can make it…..with some survival training of course!

Interested in training with the STL USA team?

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STL USA – Meet the Team, pt1

Meet the real MVPs of STL USA

Here at STL USA, we truly believe that people are the heart and backbone of the Wind Energy industry. Our work to build the skills and competencies of wind technicians to ensure growth and success now and in the long term future is what we believe sets us apart from other training providers. We know that to protect our industry to ensure its future health, we need to act now, building and training individuals and teams that can meet the demands of this rapidly growing and developing sector.

And central to our success is our people. At the core of STL USA lies its beating heart, our amazing trainers and support team. Each person who chooses to work at STL USA is handpicked because we see in them that special something that sets them apart. That drive, passion and commitment to the betterment of our industry, making it safer so we can all go home to our family and friends at the end of the day. They get it, it’s people over profits, it’s bigger picture over short-sighted gains, it’s long-term growth over quick wins.

So, with that in mind, we thought we give you a bit of an insight into some of the key players in this remarkable team.

Brandon McKelvain – Head of Training

“I entered the wind industry right out of high school. Worked for both independent companies and a major OEM, performing many technical and management roles. Collected a considerable amount of training and experience across various fields before moving into training.

I chose to work at STL because of their dedication to quality. At STL we have an opportunity to continuously improve the experience for the participants. The technicians in this industry deserve better than what has been around in past decades and over the years I think we have helped to raise the bar. We’ve built an amazing team of industry-experienced instructors with a sole purpose of delivering relevant training to technicians. We get it, because we’ve been there, and we are simply sharing what we wish we had known earlier in our careers.

In my personal life, I enjoy spending time with my family. We like the outdoors, working on our land, camping, hiking, etc.”

Marshall Miller – Training Manager

“I was born and raised in Idalou, Texas. Having worked as a Nursing Assistant and EMT for 7 years, I joined the United States Army in 2007 as an Apache Helicopter Mechanic and served my country for 6 years, including multiple tours in Afghanistan, earning a number of commendations, awards and medals.

Upon leaving the Army, I trained as a wind turbine technician and was recruited by Upwind Solutions. I then went on to develop my career working at numourous wind farm before undertaking STL USA’s Train the Trainer program as well as multiple safety and rescue training programs, before joining the STL USA team in early 2022.

I love teaching wind techs because it’s where I come from. There is nothing better than getting techs in my classes and watching them leave thinking differently about the risks and hazards in their real world workplaces. Many techs get complacent regarding their safety and that of those working alongside them. I love to shake up their thinking, risks and hazards are around every corner and you cannot overtrain when it comes to one of the most hazardous workplaces in the world.

I love teaching for STL USA as they share the same passion and vision I do in the importance of quality training for wind techs. We are different to the average training provider. We provide exceptional levels of training, going above and beyond the standard requirements, because we know it’s about more than just getting certified. It’s about protecting people’s lives.”

Jerry Rodriguez – Onsite Training Lead

“I was born in Lubbock, TX and went to school in a little town named Eagle Pass, TX. The past jobs I have had include remodeling houses, landscaping and blade repair for a wind company. That’s where I got experience with turbines. I’m a Volunteer Firefighter and have been involved with that organization for quite a few years. I have worked in shipping and receiving in a warehouse in Rochester, Minnesota. I have also worked roofing, and harvesting onions, watermelons, corn, melons and cotton. I have experience in a little bit of everything!

So, what brought me to STL USA? Well, Brandon gave me a call and asked if I was looking for a new job. He told me that they were looking for someone with experience in wind to instruct classes for safety at wind sites. I said sure, I’ll give it a try. A couple of emails later I was part of STL USA.

I knew Brandon because we used to work for the same company. We get along well together, and we both have experience in wind. I look back and think to myself, Brandon and I helped build STL USA and I love seeing how far we’ve come, it’s amazing. I like working in STL USA because I enjoy helping people understand the importance of safety in the wind Industry. I think we as a company are more like family, we really care about the people coming to take these classes and we try our best to help them out in any way we can. I think that’s why we are different from others in the industry.

The thing I most enjoy about my job is when people tell you that this company is way better than the ones they have had training with in the past. I ask them why and they say they can see we care about their safety and we understand what they are talking about because we used to work where they are working. We understand when they talk about that specific part of that turbine. Something else I really love is when you see them again for a refresher course and they’ve brought more people with them. It is great to create those relationships where every time they see you, they spend time talking to you and say thank you for the training you gave them last year because it helped them so much on their job.

In my free time like to spend time with my familia, going fishing, playing games with my son, playing with my grandbabies, helping with the fire department, woodwork, making leather items, hiking, metal detecting and cooking.”

Ben Dickens – VP North America

“I guess the first thing to say is that I’m an adopted Texan, I’m originally from the U.K. I entered the wind industry at the start of Covid to help out a family member with US projects and growth. When I started running STL USA it was just myself and Brandon. No training center, but some amazing knowledge and great connections through the work that the UK parent company has done through the years.

My background has primarily been in advertising and marketing in strategic planning roles and then starting up agencies. I shifted into consultancy work and found a niche with education businesses, driving growth and leading teams. This has been a great fit as we have grown STL USA over the last few years into one of the leading education providers in wind energy. My passion lies in helping to build the future of what I think is an amazing industry, I know every technician we train has a big role to play in what comes next for wind energy in the USA.

Outside of work I love to spend time with family, exercise and I balance this with a big love of food, cooking it but more importantly eating it.”

Stayed tuned for pt 2 of Meet the Team, coming soon…….

Interested in training with our legends?

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GWO training forum – what’s on STL USA’s agenda

See you in Orlando, October 7-9th?

The team at STL USA are super excited for this year’s GWO Training Forum. This year’s event takes place at the Renaissance Airport Hotel, Orlando 5445, Forbes Place, Orlando, from the 7th (welcome reception) to the 9th of October.

A lot is going on so here’s a summary of the key elements from STL USA’s perspective and what will be on our agenda this year.

Training Team of the Year

The STL USA team are delighted to have been shortlisted for Training Team of t the Year. This award recognizes outstanding work by GWO training providers, celebrating distinction in all aspects of training. Regardless of the outcome, the STL USA team are proud to be amongst such excellent companies in this year’s shortlist.

You can watch our submission for the awards, click here.

RESQ Solo X, grab a sneak peek at the GWO Forum welcome reception

Personal safety is due for an upgrade, it’s time to stop using outdated tech!

See Solo X at the GWO Training Forum reception on October 7th 5:30 pm> 7:30 pm

Renaissance Airport Hotel, Orlando

October sees the launch of the RESQ Solo X, a major leap forward in personal evacuation and rescue devices. The RESQ Solo X is the result of a close and collaborative partnership between Cresto Safety and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.

RESQ Solo X was engineered to reduce both the weight and complexity of existing evacuation solutions, addressing two key challenges faced by wind professionals, key challenges not being fully met by the existing generation of manual devices.

RESQ’s and Siemens Gamesa’s shared focus was on crafting a device that technicians could trust and rely on. Poul Parning, Senior EQS PPE Specialist at SGRE, highlighted this priority: “We wanted a device that was lightweight, simple to use, and capable of meeting the demands of taller turbines. The Solo X does just that — it’s designed for a single person, so it’s as easy as connect and go.”

GWO Training Quality

STL USA takes prominent positions on training and safety committees at both GWO and ACP. STL USA was the first, and to date still the only, US training provider that can deliver instructor qualification training. This is all part of STL USA’s approach to lead on quality and standards. Working closely with GWO, STL USA is currently sponsoring an update to standards to reflect a more defined approach to working at height structures, the use of backups and various fall arrest to better align with best practices and local legislation.

Training quality is and always will be a primary focus for STL USA and we look to push this agenda at every opportunity.

Growing pains in the USA for GWO

GWO adoption has exploded in North America, but this has brought with it some growing pains. High on our agenda for this year’s forum will be to discuss solutions to these issues, namely:

Lack of auditor availability
Lack of auditor understanding of national, OSHA, regulations
ALck of training provider understanding of OSHA regulations, particularly working at height

Whilst we applaud the adoption of GWO standards, we are also focussed first and foremost on safety, and we think that it’s now time for the organisations involved to take steps to ensure this culture is driven by safety as a priority.

To conclude we are very excited for this years GWO Training Forum we can’t wait to see you there!

Interested in Solo X?

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Stop using outdated tech – the RESQ Solo X is here

Developed in collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, the RESQ Solo X is here!

This revolutionary product is the result of a close and collaborative partnership between Cresto Safety and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy. As a proud member of the Cresto Alliance, STL USA is delighted to be able to bring this groundbreaking device to the USA market.

The RESQ Solo X represents another great addition to the RESQ line of rescue and evacuation devices which are the benchmark for quality, performance and safety around the world.

Cresto Safety x Siemens Gamesa

This revolutionary product brings a new standard of safety and simplicity to wind professionals working at height.

From the very start of this project, the RESQ team set out with one clear goal: to make wind turbine evacuations safer, simpler, and more reliable. Working alongside the safety experts at Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE), RESQ listened, adapted, and designed a solution that meets the complex needs of technicians operating in challenging environments. The outcome? A device that’s lightweight, easy to carry, and offers peace of mind in the most demanding situations.

“Exactly What We Needed”

Jan Østergaard Laugesen, Senior Key Expert Engineering – Team Lead SE EQS OTM at SGRE, expressed his delight with the final product. Reflecting on the process, he shared: “The design, the size, the weight – exactly what we needed.” RESQ Solo X was engineered to reduce both the weight and complexity of existing evacuation solutions, addressing one of the key challenges faced by wind professionals.

Jan further explained the significance of this breakthrough: “RESQ Solo X reduces both the weight and the complexity, making evacuation simpler and safer.” Whether it’s climbing higher turbines or moving between multiple locations, the Solo X delivers unmatched portability. “It is reliable, portable, and easy to carry. The device is designed to go with you, ensuring safety no matter where you are,” he added.

Designed with Wind Techs in Mind

From the outset, RESQ’s and Siemens Gamesa’s shared focus was on crafting a device that technicians could trust and rely on. Poul Parning, Senior EQS PPE Specialist at SGRE, highlighted this priority: “We wanted a device that was lightweight, simple to use, and capable of meeting the demands of taller turbines. The Solo X does just that — it’s designed for a single person, so it’s as easy as connect and go.”

Solo X has a sleek and ergonomic design bringing added benefits. Poul emphasised: “The Solo X checks all those boxes — it’s functional, reliable, and looks great too.” We know that confidence in safety equipment comes not only from its functionality but also from how it feels and looks, making the Solo X a device that technicians will want to carry with them every day.

Celebrating the Journey

This collaboration Cresto/RESQ Siemens Gamesa has been a journey of innovation, problem-solving, and trust. Working hand-in-hand with industry experts like Jan and Poul has allowed Cresto Safety to push the boundaries of what’s possible in height safety solutions. The result is a product that we are incredibly proud of – one that addresses real-world challenges and brings a new level of safety to wind professionals everywhere.

Take a look at the Solo X promo video featuring Jan and Poul, as they share their experiences in developing the RESQ Solo X and the impact they believe it will have on the industry. Join us in celebrating this exciting milestone and discover why the Solo X is setting a new standard for personal evacuation devices.

As we launch RESQ Solo X in the USA, we couldn’t be more excited for what this means for the future of wind turbine safety. RESQ together with Siemens Gamesa, have created something truly exceptional, and we’re proud to share it with you today.

Where can i see and try Solo X?

If you are joining us at the annual GWO training forum, October 7-9th, in Orlando come and say hi and grab a look at the Solo X, we will have the devices on show at the event welcome reception.

If you’re keen to try a descent and get to grips with just how easy Solo X is to use, then we will be hosting several open days where you will be able to use the device on our tower, these will be held in November, January, and March. We will also be going on the road and would be happy to visit your site to show you the device.

Interested in Solo X?

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NFPA 70E for wind technicians

Electrical safety for wind techs, all you need to know.

Wind technicians, working with both low and high-voltage electrical systems in wind turbines, must have a comprehensive understanding of electrical safety to comply with NFPA 70E, the standard for electrical safety in the workplace. This standard provides guidelines to protect workers from electrical hazards such as shock, arc flash, and arc blast, which are particularly relevant in the wind energy sector. Below is a breakdown of the key electrical safety knowledge and practices that wind technicians need to be familiar with for both low and high-voltage systems:

Understanding Electrical Hazards

Shock Hazard: Wind technicians must understand the dangers of electric shock, which can occur when they come into contact with energized parts. Both low and high-voltage systems can pose significant risks, with high-voltage systems capable of causing severe injury or death.
Arc Flash and Arc Blast: Arc flash hazards occur when an electric current passes through the air between conductors or from a conductor to ground. This can cause extreme heat and pressure waves (arc blast), which can be fatal. Technicians must recognize the conditions that can lead to arc flash and how to protect themselves.

Voltage Definitions and Categories

Low Voltage (typically under 1,000 volts): Wind turbines often operate on systems that fall under this category for controls, lighting, and communication systems. Technicians need to understand the specific risks and safety measures associated with low-voltage work, which can still be dangerous if not handled properly.
High Voltage (typically over 1,000 volts): This includes the primary generation and transmission components within wind turbines. High-voltage work involves greater risks, and technicians must be trained in specific safety protocols for working with such systems, including the use of specialized personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Arc-Rated Clothing: Technicians must wear appropriate arc-rated clothing when working on or near electrical equipment. This clothing is designed to withstand the heat generated by an arc flash and prevent burns.
Insulated Gloves and Tools: For both low and high-voltage work, insulated gloves are essential to protect against shock. Technicians must also use insulated tools to prevent accidental contact with live parts.
Face Shields and Helmets: Arc flash face shields and helmets protect against burns and flying debris caused by arc blasts. These should be used whenever there is a risk of exposure to arc flash hazards.

STL USA partners with world leading PPE manufacturer OEL Worldwide to provide PPE equipment and arc flash clothing for our QEW NFPA 70E standard Low and High Voltage Electrical Safety Training course.

Here are some of the key things that make OEL world-leaders in PPE provision for the wind industry.

Specialization: OEL Worldwide Industries focuses specifically on electrical safety, providing specialized products designed to protect workers from electrical hazards like arc flash, shock, and electrocution.
Expertise: Their deep knowledge and expertise in electrical safety allow them to design and produce highly effective and reliable safety gear.
Standards Compliance: Their products comply with rigorous safety standards such as NFPA 70E, ASTM, and OSHA regulations, ensuring maximum protection for users
Advanced Materials: OEL uses advanced materials and technologies to enhance the protective properties of their PPE, ensuring it meets the latest safety standards and provides superior protection.

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures

Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition: Before beginning any work on electrical equipment, technicians must de-energize the equipment and follow LOTO procedures. This involves shutting off the power, locking the switch in the “off” position, and tagging it to indicate that work is being done. This ensures that the equipment cannot be inadvertently re-energized.
Verification of De-Energization: After applying LOTO, technicians must verify that the equipment is de-energized using testing instruments. This step is crucial to ensure that no residual voltage is present before beginning work.

Approach Boundaries and Safe Work Distances

Limited and Restricted Approach Boundaries: NFPA 70E defines specific approach boundaries for different voltage levels. Technicians must be aware of these boundaries and maintain safe distances from live parts unless properly equipped and authorized to enter these areas.
Prohibited Approach Boundary: This is the closest distance a worker can approach an exposed energized part without proper PPE. High-voltage systems have stricter boundaries, and only highly trained personnel should enter these zones.

Training and Competency

Electrical Safety Training: Technicians must undergo regular training on electrical safety practices as outlined by NFPA 70E. This training should cover the identification of electrical hazards, the use of PPE, LOTO procedures, and emergency response protocols.
Qualified Personnel: Only qualified personnel, as defined by NFPA 70E, are permitted to work on or near exposed energized parts. Technicians must demonstrate competency in the specific electrical tasks they are assigned, including understanding the risks and how to mitigate them.

The low and high voltage electrical safety training to standard NFPA 70E course run by STL USA is a wind-specific, face-to-face training program designed to equip wind technicians with the electrical safety knowledge, best work practices in electrical safety and how to apply them in real-world situations.

Head of Training at STL USA, Brandon McKelvain had this to say;

“In my opinion QEW is one of, if not the most important courses for anyone working in an energized wind turbine. This should be a day one course and should be renewed at least every three years. Technicians need and deserve to fully understand the hazards they are being exposed to and what measures must be taken to do their job safely. Unfortunately, it’s still quite common for technicians and companies alike not to fully understand PPE, labels, and how to create an electrically safe work condition. At STL USA we are leveraging our many decades of wind industry experience to create content and exercises that relate to wind technicians. In our QEW LV & HV courses, technicians will put their hands on many different pieces of equipment; absence of voltage testers, load break switches, learn about DMM safety, practice dawning PPE, hang grounds, demonstrate hot-cold-hot checks using proving units, and so much more. We believe QEW training should be more than theoretical, each participant will use critical thinking to apply the knowledge they are learning throughout the training, and prove they understand the safety measures designed to get them home safe!“

Arc Flash Risk Assessment

Arc Flash Labels: Equipment must be properly labeled to indicate the potential arc flash risk, including the incident energy level and the required PPE. Technicians must be able to read and understand these labels to take appropriate safety measures.
Incident Energy Calculations: Technicians should understand how incident energy is calculated and how it influences the selection of PPE and the determination of safe working distances.

Emergency Response Procedures

First Aid and CPR Training: Given the risks of electrical shock and arc flash, technicians should be trained in first aid and CPR to respond effectively in case of an accident.
Emergency Communication Plans: In remote wind farm locations, having a clear communication plan and knowing the steps for summoning emergency assistance are critical.

Conclusion

Wind technicians working with both low and high-voltage systems need to be thoroughly trained in the electrical safety standards outlined by NFPA 70E. This includes understanding electrical hazards, using appropriate PPE, following LOTO procedures, maintaining safe distances, and being prepared for emergencies. Regular training and adherence to these safety protocols are essential to ensuring the safety of personnel and the reliable operation of wind energy systems.

Learn more about our QEW training course

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STL USA – Shortlisted for Training Team of the Year, North America

STL USA is delighted to have been shortlisted for this year's GWO Training Team of the Year!

The awards, first launched in 2021, shine a light on the teams and individuals who make delivery of GWO standards possible, training hundreds of thousands of wind technicians in GWO courses every year in over 50 countries worldwide.

Jakob Lau Holst, CEO of Global Wind Organisation, says: “The GWO Safety & Training Awards are one of the highlights on our calendar and I am delighted to see them back for 2024. The programme is back, bigger and better than ever before and I know that the competition from entrants will be intense.”

GWO revealed the shortlist for the 2024 Training Team of the Year award a short while ago, with STL USA one of just three in the running for the North America award. This award recognizes outstanding work by GWO training providers, celebrating distinction in all aspects of training.

Whatever the outcome, we are proud to be amongst such excellent company in the running for this year’s award. We would like to congratulate all the finalists for being shortlisted and thank them for their contributions to our industry and their ongoing commitment to keeping all our wind energy colleagues safe.

Have a watch of the video below, where our superb Training Team showcase their incomparable passion and pride for what they do.

Learn more about the team

Click the button to meet some of our amazing team.

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.

Interested in using STL USA to deliver your training

Click the link to find out more

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

Click the link to find out more