Celebrations broke out from Afton to Altus on the day Oklahoma became a state. Vast resources accompanied the triumphal entry into the union 117 years ago. Oklahoma was the top petroleum producer in the country at the time.
Annual oil production today ranks sixth nationwide, as does natural gas production, according to information supplied by the U.S. Department of Energy.
An unexpected resource is also now interwoven into the state energy landscape through a series of wind farms. Oklahoma ranks third in the nation (behind Texas and Iowa) for electricity generated by over 5,500 wind turbines statewide.
Projections provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate a huge demand for technicians over the next decade to maintain a growing inventory of turbines, which now totals more than 75,000 (according to information supplied by the U.S. Department of Energy). In fact, wind farm technicians are forecasted to be the fastest-growing occupation in the country.
Canadian Valley Technology Center is among a handful of institutions statewide who certify wind technicians. Average starting pay is currently $26 per hour for students who complete the program and go to work, instructor Dani Wood said.
“My students learn so much in just five weeks that it can be like drinking from a fire hose,” Wood said. “We have so much fun in the process. We even spend time on what makes a good resume, doing mock interviews and how to present yourself as a good job candidate.
“I wish more people knew that you don’t have to have any previous technical knowledge to take this course and be successful.”
Training consists of learning special tools and maintenance procedure with a strong emphasis on safety and rescue equipment at heights. Students earn 16 industry certifications during the course. These include hydraulics, electricity, First Aid/CPR/AED and confined space.
A variety of simulators and wind tower scenarios are utilized during the 200-hour class. A free, two-hour orientation is required before enrollment into the program. Visit cvtech.edu to learn more about the school’s wind energy program.
