Wind energy is a fast-growing industry in Nebraska and across the country, offering exciting opportunities for skilled technicians. Northeast Community College’s Wind Energy program prepares students with the safety knowledge, technical skills, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in this high-demand field.
At Northeast, students have the option to select fromm a diploma program or an Associate of Applied Science Degree.
- Diploma Program
- The diploma program provides students the foundational knowledge and skills to start at an entry level position in the wind industry. Students will learn principles of electricity, safety, motor control, and more. All coursework in the Wind Energy Technology Diploma program will apply as full credit towards the Wind Energy Associate of Applied Science Degree.
- Associate of Applied Science Program
- The Associate of Applied Science program in Wind Energy provides more in-depth training and preparation for the workforce. Beginning with core topics like wind energy fundamentals, basic electricity, and blueprint reading, students build a strong foundation before advancing to motor control, mechanical systems, and fluid fundamentals. In the second year, the focus shifts to concepts like control systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. Students also receive training in rigging, climbing safety, and turbine site assessment, including economic and environmental considerations. Graduates leave the program ready to step into rewarding careers in wind energy, equipped with the skills employers are looking for. The program also can ladder into Electromechanical Technology or Electrical Construction and Control programs.
Why Students Choose This Program
The program emphasizes real-world skills essential for wind turbine service technicians, including working in confined spaces and at great heights. Students gain proficiency in climbing safety, blade inspections, and mechanic skills employers seek. Upon completion of the program, students will have earned CPR, NC3, and NOCTI certifications.
The alternative energy industry is experiencing rapid growth. Graduates of the Wind Energy program at Northeast Community College benefit from a robust job market with well-paying jobs. The program's focus on skill development ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in this expanding field.
With small class sizes and dedicated instructors who have real-world wind industry experience, students receive personalized guidance throughout the program. Faculty not only teach technical skills but also mentor students on career planning and professional development, fostering a supportive path from enrollment to employment.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Northeast Community College's Wind Energy program combines in-depth classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare students for careers in the renewable energy industry. Training takes place in Northeast’s Wind Energy Lab, which is outfitted with industry-standard tools and technologies, including a Ronin ascender, drones, laser alignment systems, Hytorc hydraulic tools, B-Rad torque tools, and Siemens PLCs. The program also features a fully operational on-campus wind turbine, giving students the unique opportunity to work on real-world systems in a controlled, educational setting. To further enhance their learning, students tour a local wind site and gain valuable experience climbing an industrial-scale wind turbine. This immersive, real-world environment ensures graduates are equipped with the skills and confidence employers are looking for.
Key courses include:
- Motor Control
- Wind Site Development and Operation
- Wind Industrial Safety
Program Details
Associate of Applied Science, 73 Credits (6 of which are for the mandatory summer internship)
Diploma, 41 Credits (6 of which are for the mandatory summer internship)
Program is offered in-person with class theory and hands-on lab time. Class is Monday - Thursday with 3-day weekends.
Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program. Complete your application for admission.
Two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS), includes a summer internship
One-year Diploma, includes a summer internship
James Loutzenhiser, Nebraska Public Power District
Mitch Hyde, Bluestem Energy Solutions
Brian Dozler, Clearway Energy
Jared Gillilan, Orsted
Christopher Walnofer, Nebraska Public Power District
Luke Hinkle, Invenergy
Cole Mohnen, Vestas
Caelen Friedow, Nextera Energy
Blake Carter, Siemens Gamesa
Sam Becker, GE
Weston Gaines, Ternion Energy
Micah Noteboom, Takkion
Nick Heithoff, Invenergy
Dan Tillis, Invenergy
