Wind Turbine Technology banner image Wind Turbine Technology banner image Wind Turbine Technology banner image

Wind Turbine Technology


Start Date: September


Location: Summerside Waterfront Campus


Length: 1 Year


Credential: Certificate, Wind Turbine Technician


Program Availability: Fall 2024 Term

Canadian Applicants: Open

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: Open

Other International Applicants: Open


The Wind Turbine Technology program prepares you for the varied demands of the wind energy industry. Courses in math and physics reinforce your understanding of the mechanical and electrical systems of the turbine and hydraulic systems you will maintain.

This program requires that you are physically fit and comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces. Extensive safety training and rescue drills ensure you understand and respect the strict protocols of the industry.

Train on campus and in the field


This program is located at our Summerside Waterfront Campus where you'll have access to our Wind Turbine lab to practice the skills you learn in the classroom. You'll also gain significant experience during on-the-job training, servicing >100kw turbines locally and at utility wind farms throughout the Maritimes.

Program Learning Outcomes


Upon successful completion of the Wind Turbine Technology program at Holland College, graduates will:

  1. Apply safety best practices and procedures, including personal protective equipment, in the workplace during operations including hoisting and rigging, electrical safety, mechanical safety, climbing and rescuing, and confined spaces.
  2. Use tools and instruments in a safe and effective manner to install, troubleshoot, and maintain wind turbine systems and components.
  3. Apply fundamental knowledge of electricity, electrical equipment and distribution, and instrumentation and controls as they pertain to wind turbine systems.
  4. Apply knowledge of hydraulics and mechanical systems and components required for the installation, operation, inspection, and maintenance of wind turbine systems.
  5. Apply mathematics and science principles to analyze and solve simple technical problems relating to wind turbine operation.
  6. Interpret and follow diagrams, blueprints, and schematics.
  7. Communicate and collaborate with clients, supervisors, co-workers, and other tradespersons.
  8. Identify the importance of ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities and keep pace with industry changes.

Prepare for a career in the Wind Energy Industry


By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to start your apprenticeship in a number of positions in the wind energy industry. You'll also earn apprenticeship hours towards a Red Seal as an Industrial Electrician or Millwright.

  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • Résumé including work and volunteer experience

NOTES:

  • Preference will be given to applicants with Grade 12 academic math and Grade 11 or 12 physics
  • You must be in excellent physical condition, and be able to participate in strenuous physical activity on elevated work platforms in adverse weather conditions.
  • Don’t have the courses you need to get into this program? Upgrade, earn high school credits, or get your GED in Adult Ed. It’s free!
  • If your first language is not English please review our English Language Requirements page.

2023/2024 Academic Year

Tuition, fees, and other costs are listed in Canadian dollars. International tuition includes the International Student Fee.

1 Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $5,917 $11,017
Fees $1,537 $2,287
Other Costs $850 $850
Total $8,304 $14,154
/

Canadian Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1 Year

Tuition $ 5,917
Lab Fee $ 700
Student Union $ 172
Health Insurance Fee $ 445
Graduation Fee $ 100
First Aid/WHMIS $ 120
     Total payable to Holland College $ 7,454
   
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 4,807
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 2,647
   

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1 Year

Books $ 300
Uniforms/Safety Shoes/License $ 400
Equipment/Tools/Reg.Fee $ 150
     Total $ 850
   
Grand Total $8,304

 

International Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1 Year

Tuition* $ 11,017
Lab Fee $ 700
Student Union $ 172
Health Insurance Fee $ 1,195
Graduation Fee $ 100
First Aid/WHMIS $ 120
     Total payable to Holland College $ 13,304
   
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 10,657
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 2,6647
   

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1 Year

Books $ 300
Uniforms/Safety Shoes/License $ 400
Equipment/Tools/Reg.Fee $ 150
     Total $ 850
   
Grand Total $14,154

*Includes the International Student Fee.

  • Wind turbine maintenance technician
  • Wind turbine installation
  • Wind turbine manufacture

APPRENTICESHIP

Students in the Wind Turbine program earn credit hours towards their Red Seal as an Industrial Electrician or Millwright.

After you graduate from Holland College, your apprenticeship training begins. When you register with your provincial apprenticeship program, you will receive credit for the hours earned and level exams passed while you were at Holland College. Learn more about apprenticeship and the Red Seal program.

Course Code

Course Name & Description

Credit Values


Course Code:SAFE-1005

PEI Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:BLPR-1015

Blueprint Reading and Sketching

This course introduces students to blueprint reading and sketching. Reading of construction and engineering drawings is a core skill for technicians in the wind energy sector. Students work with various types of technical drawings and specification packages, and estimate materials and timelines from drawing packages. In addition, students create simple sketches using standard drawing implements.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:COMM-1005

Workplace Communications

This course is designed to allow students to develop preparatory skills for securing and retaining employment including; workplace communication, time management, critical thinking and problem-solving, and customer service. Upon successful completion of this course students are able to use oral communications techniques, and create a variety of written documents and reports used in the workplace. Methods and strategies for job search, preparation and retention are also incorporated.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:COMP-1000

Computer Essentials

Students learn productivity software and explore digital environments with practical applications for various workplaces and educational institutions. The main areas of focus include word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, email and other electronic communication tools, various digital environments, and industry-specific applications.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:ELEC-1405

Wind Energy Electrical Fundamentals

This course introduces Wind Turbine Technician students to the basic principles required to solve alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) circuits. The relationships among voltage, impedance, and current are analyzed and reinforced with theory and practical lab activities.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:ELEC-1410

Wind Turbine Electrical Equipment and Distribution

Students are introduced to electrical equipment used in wind turbine generators and how those generators are connected to the distribution grid. Students become familiar with electrical generation and distribution equipment, and AC/DC machines, with attention paid to monitoring, testing and maintenance of equipment and systems.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:ELEC-1415

Wind Turbine Controls

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic theory and operation of common industrial control systems used in the wind energy industry. Networking principles, protocols, and commonly used hardware types are examined. Students practice common troubleshooting and diagnostic techniques.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:FLUD-1070

Wind Turbine Hydraulics

This course is an introduction to fluid power technology as it relates to hydraulic systems. Topics covered include; the theory of hydraulics, types of fluids, conductors and seals, reservoirs, hydraulic actuators, control valves and pumps. Students focus on the fundamentals of hydraulic system components, and skills are reinforced through laboratory work.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:MATH-1040

Wind Turbine Trade Math

This course is designed to enable the student to develop trade related math skills. Students acquire competency in the math skills as they relate to their trade and future career. Emphasis is placed on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills that are used in trouble-shooting. Students are challenged to continually make connections between math and the electrical field, as well as every day applications.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:MATH-1045

Wind Energy Science

This course provides students with an understanding of the scientific principles behind the generation of energy from wind. Through practical applications and mathematical analysis, students will explore topics such as aerodynamics, force, work, energy, power, gears and pulleys, fluid movement, and heat transfer in the context of wind turbine operation.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:MECH-1110

Wind Turbine Mechanical Systems I

Students are introduced to basic mechanical theory and standard work practices with mechanical systems. Use of hand tools, tool inspection, fastener selection and application, lubrication techniques, and leveling and alignment procedures are explored.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:MECH-1120

Wind Turbine Mechanical Systems II

Students build on their theoretical knowledge to assemble drivetrain systems. Students learn about bearing systems, and assemble shafts with anti-friction bearings. Emphasis is placed on leveling and alignment of machines with both traditional hand tools and electronic laser equipment. The role of vibration analysis as a diagnostic and predictive tool is also explored.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:NCPR-1001

Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C

A comprehensive two-day course offering standard first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills from a certified trainer. As required by regulation, this course covers CPR and the management of other breathing, airway and circulation emergencies, as well as, the control of bleeding, treating shock, stabilizing fractures and dislocations, head and spine injuries, and more. Also, includes automated external defibrilators (AED). This certification expires in 3 years.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1002

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems

Students complete Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and certification.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1066

Certified Fall Protection

Students are trained and become certified in the application and use of fall protection equipment. Students explore hazards, legislative requirements, as well as various types of fall protection systems and their components. Demonstration of the proper application and use of fall protection is required in order to pass this course.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1070

Lock Out Tag Out - Workplace Electrical Safety

Students are trained in lock out tag out operations for working on and around sources of potentially hazardous energy. Students become familiar with the requirements as outlined in CSA Z462-18 - Workplace Electrical Safety.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-2001

Confined Space Awareness

Students will be trained and certified in Level 1 confined space awareness.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:WIND-1011

Wind Turbine Work Practices I

Students are introduced to industry best practices in terms of safety and planning for field work to ensure the continued health and safety of workers while completing work tasks. Students are trained in emergency rescue procedures and learn how to use risk assessment tools in the completion of simple tasks and the development of job safety analysis for complex tasks. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation is explored and incident investigation techniques are introduced.

Credit Value:5


Course Code:WIND-1021

Wind Turbine Work Practices II

A continuation of Wind Turbine Work Practices I, students apply industry best practices in terms of safety and planning for field work to ensure the continued health and safety of workers while completing work tasks. Students use risk assessment tools in the completion of simple tasks and the development of job safety analysis for complex tasks and apply workface planning concepts as they participate in a variety of workplace tasks.

Credit Value:4


Wind Turbine Technology background image Wind Turbine Technology background image Wind Turbine Technology background image

Skill development is key, but the thing that sets this program apart is the opportunity to make connections with industry professionals. I came here because I was curious about wind energy and left with a job!

Will, Class of 2021

Related
Programs


Electromechanical Technology

Learn how to install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair complex automated equipment in this 2-year diploma program. Learn about hydraulic/pneumatic systems, programmable logic controllers, electronics, microprocessors and more.

Energy Systems Engineering Technology

Train to be a solar photovoltaic installer and an energy auditor. Explore how energy is produced, stored, distributed and used in this 2-year diploma program and prepare for a career working with renewable energy and technology.

Industrial Electrical Technology

The two-year Industrial Electrical Technology program will show you how to plan, install, test, inspect, troubleshoot, and service all types of industrial electrical equipment in this two-year program. Our on-site electrical labs give you hands-on training and exposure to real-life working conditions to prepare you for a career as an industrial electrician.

Additional
Resources