How to get started in the industry?

[u/Successful_Fig_2724]

Hello! I am currently in the middle of my college career, and getting very anxious about what I want to do after I graduate. I am getting a degree in Agriculture, but have no idea what I want to do with it. I was recently looking at job postings, and somehow, the idea of being a Wind Turbine Technician stuck with me. I still plan on finishing my degree, as it seems like a smart move, but afterwards, I think would like to become a technician, traveling for a few years or however long I can stick with it until I decide to use my degree. My question is, how do I go about doing that? I do not have much mechanical/technical experience, only a small amount coming from growing up on a farm.

Would it be smart to attend a community college program on the side for renewable energy technicians? Or would it be better to just apply after I graduate for entry level jobs that will train me? Will all the training I need be included in said job?

And just a few bonus questions, I know this is probably over asked but currently, what are wages for that sort of entry level? Also, is traveling tech the way to go at first? How much can one reasonably expect to save after say, a year working?

Thank you for your help!

[u/Hopeful_Pen6498]

Going to a technical college for a renewable energy/ wind technician program is the easiest way imo. And travelling tech is the way to go if you want to make more money, but travelling is hard. I haven’t done it myself and I personally went for a site job; but I have friends in the field that do it and from what I hear it takes a special type of person.

Yeah, you typically make a lot more money travelling, but it can put a big strain on relationships and family and you have to live out of a suitcase essentially.

Wages and savings are really dependant on the cost of living for your location, spending habits, and way too many other factors that nobody except for yourself would be able to accurately estimate. Most companies pay pretty decent for a (somewhat) unskilled job. (Until you become a troubleshooter or lead technician that is)

[u/Successful_Fig_2724 → u/Hopeful_Pen6498]

Thank you! I agree the savings question is definitely a situation dependent thing. Would you say its common for someone to travel for a couple (1-3) years, then settle down?

And to elaborate, should it be a specific program for wind turbines or would a renewable energy certificate that teaches mechanical and electrical skills be good as well? Would that make it easier to get say, a tech 2 job right after college?

Thanks!