GWO IQT: Prioritising quality

GWO IQT

North America's only IQT qualified training provider

STL USA is delighted to announce that we are the only Instructor Qualification Training (IQT) qualified GWO training provider in North America. Not only are the STL USA team IQT qualified but we are also the only North American team that can train instructors in this standard.

What is IQT?

The GWO Instructor Qualification Training (IQT) framework focusses on ways to deliver higher numbers of qualified wind technician instructors. The piloting stage was carried out across four continents to capture the experience and assessments of as many instructors on how best to tackle the shortage of industry-ready instructors and to improve the overall quality of GWO tuition. 

Why is IQT important?

Pre-IQT no formal process existed for instructor qualification beyond the internal Participate>Observe>Co-deliver>Deliver under Observation process laid out in the requirements for training providers. This process is implemented by the training providers themselves and therefore lacks an objective framework to ensure instructor competence and ability. 

This has led many in wind to ask how do you know that instructors can deliver good training.

IQT aims to change this.

Quality and safety go hand in hand?

Averting a race to the bottom. Something that was on everyone’s minds at the recent GWO Training conference in Dallas. This is something that poses a real risk to training standards and the quality of delivery. Put simply as more training entities come into the US market how do we ensure that downward price pressure doesn’t also cause a decline in training quality? Well. it’s not a simple question to answer, IQT certainly addresses teaching quality however auditing also needs to shape up to ensure that GWO and the GWO Standards aren’t devalued. What’s positive is this is recognized and solutions are beginning to emerge. However, there is still a portion left up to the employer to identify who’s good and who’s not so good.

GWO IQT panel Dallas

STL USA’s Brandon McKelvain took part in the recent IQT panel as one of the leading GWO instructors worldwide. Brandon has been heavily involved in IQT development as he is committed to training excellence as everyone is at STL USA.

The principles behind IQT

In a practical sense, IQT is more focussed on the actual teaching as opposed to the course content. Once IQT-qualified instructors still need time to learn course materials, practice delivery, and be signed off on individual courses. However, this can be done much faster than the usual 4-week process. This is great for a growing industry. 

I’m a training provider, how do i get IQT?

Currently, STL USA is the only training provider in North America qualified to deliver an IQTT ( IQT trainer training).

With this in mind, we are aiming to run our first open-enrollment course in February 2024. You can contact us below if you are interested in participating in this training.

Interested in training with STL USA

Click the link to find out more 

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Train GWO onsite

Save time and money, train GWO onsite with STL USA

STL USA have expanded our onsite GWO training for 2023 and as we look ahead we are planning the states we will visit in 2024 we thought it was a great opportunity to detail all the aspects of onsite training in this blog. 

When you train GWO onsite with STL USA you can rest assured that you receive exactly the same course content and exercises you would in a training environment. To this end, and to improve onsite teaching, STL USA employs a mobile training unit that is used for GWO Basic Safety Training – Working at Height and GWO Advanced Rescue Training modules. 

Alongside this we encourage the use of actual turbines, which allows us to practice rescue exercises in the environment where technicians actually work. As an added bonus we work with the technicians to help with rescue plans and have worked with local first responders to familiarise them with the wind turbine and potential rescue situations.

How does onsite GWO training work?

Onsite training is very straightforward. STL USA arrive onsite with our mobile training unit, conduct a risk assessment and then commence training. If the onsite team want to use a turbine for certain exercises then this needs to be shut down for use, classroom portions of training are usually conducted in a meeting or conference room, and that’s about it.

Why train GWO onsite?

The obvious benefits of onsite training are the cost and time savings for travel and lodging usually associated with a trip to the training center. Beyond that logistically onsite training can be much easier for sites to plan around, with technicians able to jump off training if absolutely necessary to deal with issues at the site. This is of course impossible if they’re 1,000 miles away at training.

The final benefit, and in our opinion the most important from a skills development perspective is the ability to train in the live environment. No matter how good a training center may be it will never be as good as the actual wind turbines that technicians work on. Through our blended onsite approach technicians get to learn in the mobile training environment and then practice exercises in a turbine. Simply put this ensures they have the skills and knowledge to deal with problem scenarios on the equipment they use in the real world.

GWO onsite courses available

STL USA trains a range of GWO and non-GWO courses onsite, including GWO Basic Safety Training and GWO Advanced Rescue Training as well as NFPA 70E electrical safety training.

Which states are covered

STL USA trains GWO onsite across the USA focussing on the main wind States. Our annual program focuses on regions through particular times of the year. For example, North Eastern and Northern states are covered from April to October (weather permitting ) with a focus on the warmer States from October to March. The map below gives an indication of areas, if you can’t see yours just give us a call.

The booking process

Booking is simple, click the link below to speak with a member of the team. Onsite training requires 2-3 weeks notice.

Future course availability

Onsite training for the remainder of 2023 is now focused on the Southern and warmer States. The program for 2024 will include the Northeast – New York State, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio then moving to the Northern States – Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Heading over to the West and then circling back down to Texas. Each region will have roughly a 2-month window.

Onsite team lead

Onsite GWo training is led by Jerry Rodriguez. Jerry has years of GWO teaching experience and specialises in basic and advanced rescue training. Jerry’s background in the fire service makes him perfectly suited to working with all types of different environments and he consistently receives 5 star feedback for his training course delivery 

Book onsite GWO training

click the link and contact a member of the STL USA team for booking and information

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WindStart program

A complete program to get you into wind energy

STL has created the WindStart program to help people get into wind. Why? Because, wind energy is one of the fastest-growing industries in the USA, with above-average salaries and a huge demand for new workers. This post explores why you should consider a career in wind and why WindStart is the perfect place to start.

A growing market

Significant growth is forecast in the US wind energy market over the next 5 years. It’s estimated the market will grow by 50% over this time period. Fuelled by Government incentives and reduced costs wind energy is the fastest-growing jobs market in the USA. 

Wind energy market growth
The training program

WindStart includes two-course options. The first covers all the required industry qualifications; GWO Basic Safety, GWO Basic Technical, GWO Advanced Rescue plus electrical safety and access to windtech careers. The second option includes an additional week of technical training covering all major aspects of a wind turbine.

Funding

Through our long-standing partnership with Texas State Technical College, up to 60% of course fees can be covered by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. 

As Wind Turbine Service Technician is an in-demand career option, these courses are eligible for WIOA funding which provides up to $4,500 for an individual to train. 

Funding requirements: Not already working in sector, or unemployed.

On-the-job training, linking to business

As part of the WindStart program STL USA is working with our customer base to create 2-3 week paid job placements for students who successfully pass through the WindStart training. This is a great stepping stone to employment and is a perfect opportunity to experience life in the field.

Recruitment, jobs

STL USA has also set up windtech.careers a jobs site specifically for wind technicians and employers in the wind industry. All students who pass through WindStart have the opportunity to create a free resume which is shared with over 300 employers in the wind sector.

How to access WindStart?

Booking onto courses is really simple, just click the link below and a member of the STL USA team will help you book onto a course, secure funding and give you all the information you need to start your journey in wind.

Find out more about WindStart

Click the link and fill in the form for more information.

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Is wind energy a good career choice?

10 reasons why wind energy is a sound career choice

As the world continues to grapple with the growing climate crisis and the urgent need to transition to renewable sources of energy, the wind energy sector has emerged as a beacon of hope. A career in wind energy is not just a job; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. The question that often arises is, “Is wind energy a good career choice, and how do I get into wind?” The resounding answer to this question is a definitive yes, and in this article, we’ll explore why.

 

Job Growth and Stability:

The wind energy sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with no signs of slowing down. As governments and businesses worldwide commit to renewable energy targets, the demand for wind energy professionals continues to rise. This industry offers job stability and promising career prospects, making it a sound choice for those seeking long-term employment.

Technological Advancements:

Wind energy is not static; it’s a field of constant innovation and technological advancements. This means there are ample opportunities for professionals to learn and grow within the industry. Whether you’re interested in turbine design, maintenance, or grid integration, you’ll find a dynamic and evolving landscape in wind energy.

Global Opportunities:

Wind energy is a global industry, and professionals in this field often have the chance to work on international projects. This provides a unique opportunity to gain experience in diverse settings and cultures while contributing to a worldwide effort to transition to clean energy.

Competitive Salaries:

Wind energy careers offer competitive salaries that are often on par with or even surpassing those in traditional energy sectors. With the increasing demand for skilled professionals, companies are willing to invest in attracting and retaining top talent.

Job Satisfaction:

Many people find great satisfaction in working in an industry that aligns with their values. Knowing that your daily work directly contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change can be deeply rewarding.

Diverse Career Pathways:

Wind energy is a multifaceted field with diverse career pathways. Whether you’re interested in engineering, project management, research and development, or policy advocacy, there’s a role for you in the wind energy sector.

Resilience to Economic Downturns:

Wind energy has shown resilience to economic downturns and market fluctuations. This is due, in part, to its long-term contracts and the essential nature of energy production. As such, careers in wind energy are often insulated from some of the economic uncertainties that affect other industries.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact:

One of the most compelling reasons to consider a career in wind energy is the profound environmental impact it offers. Wind energy is clean and green, producing zero emissions and significantly reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. By working in this industry, you become part of the solution to combat climate change, contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.

Positive Work Environment:

The wind energy sector is known for its collaborative and positive work environment. Teams often share a strong sense of purpose and camaraderie, making it an enjoyable place to work.

Personal Fulfillment:

Finally, a career in wind energy allows you to make a meaningful contribution to society. You’re not just working for a paycheck; you’re helping to create a sustainable and greener future for all.

In conclusion, choosing a career in wind energy is not just a smart decision; it’s a choice that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and secure a sustainable future. The answer to the question “Is wind energy a good career choice?” is a resounding “yes.” It offers job stability, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment. So, if you’re passionate about renewable energy and want a career that matters, consider joining the wind energy sector—it’s a path towards a brighter and cleaner future.

 

How can STL USA help?

STL USA has created a program called WindStart, specifically designed to help people transition into the wind industry. WindStart includes a range of vital industry qualifications and a great technical grounding. WindStart has been designed to bridge the gap between other industries and wind energy. Click the link below to find out more.

Find out more about WindStart

Click the link and fill in the form for more information.

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STL USA partnering with colleges

STL USA partnering with colleges

STL USA partnering with colleges to implement GWO training

Watch our latest video explaining how we can help colleges implement GWO and why it’s important.

 

STL USA partnering with colleges has been a constant theme over the last 10 years of operations in the USA. On the back of this STL USA’s parent company has over 20 years of experience working with education providers, military leavers organizations, and other workforce organizations alongside commercial wind technician training. To partner with STL USA could not be more simple.

STL USA has made it a key part of its mission to play a central role in the workforce expansion required to meet the demands of the fast-growing renewable energy sector and working with education is central to this long-term strategy.

What is GWO?

The Global Wind Organization (GWO) was created to implement a set of standards across the industry, initially to improve safety and later to provide a framework for required skills. The GWO was created by its members who include GE, Vestas, Siemens, and a host of large national and multinational businesses. Suffice it to say it’s formed of a who’s who in the wind.

The standards created by GWO are then adapted into training courses which are the default for the wind industry. It’s not an exageration to say it’s very hard to even set foot on a wind farm with GWO certificates.

Why is it important for students?

There are two reasons, employability and salaries. Having GWO makes a prospective employee more attractive to employers and also translates to higher salaries. Put simply it gives new employees a clear advantage.

Other advantages

Once a facility is audited and approved anyone can train there. This opens up commercial opportunities for colleges to train local business customers.

 

 Programs with education follow a simple 4-step process that allows for a fast, low-cost roll-out.. These stages include:

COMPLIANT QUALITY MANAGEMENT SETUP

  • QMS set up for partner site
  • Compliance requirements

FACILITIES

  • Audit existing facilities for GWO compliance
  • Gap analysis
  • Roadmap to Compliance
TRAIN THE TRAINER
 
  • WEEK 1-2 Course attendance and observation
  • WEEK 3 Supported delivery
  • WEEK 4 Observed course delivery
 
GWO AUDITS
 
  • Pre-Audit run through
  • Independent GWO audit

STL USA has refined this process to ensure a fast, low-cost delivery that results in GWO accreditation within 6-8 weeks. Additionally, once audited the college can then take advantage of commercial training opportunities with local businesses.

Working with TSTC

The Texas State Technical College (TSTC) wind program is rightly considered one of the premier courses in the USA. The partnership between STL USA and TSTC dates back over 6 years. Initially developed to service local wind technicians, the program was then extended to students. Incorporating GWO into student studies ensures that graduates are in the best possible position to enter the job market. 

“Working with STL USA has allowed us to quickly integrate industry requirements into our undergraduate programs. Simply put this makes our graduates more employable. STL USA takes care of everything ensuring our faculty can get on with teaching. It’s been a pleasure working together.”

TSTC Wind program lead

As we move forward with renewables across the USA new legislation will fuel the sector’s growth. It’s anticipated that the clean energy sector will double in the next 10 years requiring an additional 250,000 people to fill roles. With this in mind, it’s essential that the commercial and education sectors come together to ensure the next generation of wind professionals are able to meet the demands of this fast-moving industry.

If you lead a wind program talk to us now about how STL USA can support the role out of a GWO program for your college.

 

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Wind Escape Features

wind escape features

Serious features for serious situations

The Wind Escape Features are specifically designed with technician safety in mind. But, more than that they are designed for high-pressure, stressful situations. The Wind Escape personal rescue and Passto pulley system for rescues represent the future of personal rescue. Small light, super intuitive devices with a host of features that prioritise safety. This is a direct reaction to the older, heavier, more complicated devices we have seen throughout the industry and a need to do better. Something that has been demanded by wind technicians for the last few years.

Compact and light

The Wind Escape personal rescue has been designed with technician comfort to the fore. Its super light design makes it the go-to personal rescue device.

Anti-jamming and anti-panic

Even in the event of a technician’s panic situation the device operates either a 2 or 1-handed. Anti-jamming means no one is left dangling.

No overheating

The Technora rope ensures no overheating for the entire length of a descent.

No weight set-up required

Ensuring the device is as simple as possible no set-up is required for the user’s weight. This is essential as who has time to stop and start calculating in a rescue or escape situation.

Simple slack feed and rescue setup

Unlike some devices currently on the market a key Wind Escape feature is its ability to feed through slack. This is vital in rescue situations in combination with the Passto pulley system, making rescue efficient and fast.

Technical Features

Minimum use temperature of -30°C.
– It incorporates a 5mm diameter Technora rope resistant to high temperature and tears.
– Easy maintenance thanks to its vacuum packaging that simplifies the revision.
– Customisable rope length of up to 200m.
– CE EN 341:2011/2D: working load 40 – 120kg.
– ANSI Z359.4-2013: working load 60 – 141kg.
– 200m version’s weight: 4.4kg.

Learn more 

Get in touch with a member of our knowledgeable team and find out how you can test and buy the Wind Escape

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GWO Training in Abilene

GWO Training in Abilene

GWO Training in Abilene from STL USA

GWO Training in Abilene includes a complete range of courses delivered by highly experienced trainers

GWO Training in Abilene has been delivered by STL USA for a number of years. The STL USA headquarters includes both indoor and outdoor training facilities designed to simulate a turbine environment where appropriate.

But that’s probably only half the story, STL USA has been delivering GWO training in Texas from multiple locations and has been instrumental in helping develop sites for customers over the years.

In recent years, the global shift towards renewable energy sources has led to a rapid expansion of the wind energy sector. As wind farms continue to dot the landscapes, ensuring the safety of the workforce that maintains and operates these structures becomes paramount. One crucial aspect of this effort is the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) training, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing safety and skills within the wind energy industry. Abilene, Texas, emerges as a significant hub for GWO training, offering specialized programs that equip workers with the expertise to tackle the unique challenges posed by wind energy installations.

GWO training programs are designed to address the specific needs of the wind energy sector. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including working at heights, manual handling, fire awareness, first aid, and more. As wind turbines continue to grow taller and more complex, the risks associated with maintaining and servicing them also increase. GWO training ensures that workers are well-versed in the latest safety protocols, operational techniques, and emergency procedures. This training not only safeguards the workforce but also contributes to the efficiency and reliability of wind energy operations.

Abilene, Texas, with its strategic location and strong commitment to renewable energy, has emerged as a prominent center for GWO training. The city’s wind energy landscape, characterized by expansive wind farms, makes it an ideal location for practical training scenarios. The local training centers in Abilene provide state-of-the-art facilities that simulate real-life conditions, enabling trainees to develop hands-on skills in a controlled environment. This practical approach to training instills confidence in workers, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle the challenges posed by their jobs.

Moreover, GWO training in Abilene goes beyond technical skills. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and leadership within the wind energy sector. Workers are trained to collaborate effectively, which is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of wind farms. This holistic approach to training not only improves the safety record but also contributes to a positive work culture within the industry.

As the wind energy sector continues to grow, the demand for skilled and certified workers also increases. GWO training in Abilene opens up opportunities for individuals seeking a career in the renewable energy industry. The training programs are designed to cater to both newcomers and experienced professionals, ensuring that everyone receives the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their roles. This not only supports workforce development but also contributes to the economic growth of the region.

GWO training in Abilene, Texas, stands as a testament to the wind energy industry’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability. As the world moves towards a greener future, the role of wind energy becomes more significant, and so does the need for a skilled workforce that can operate and maintain wind turbines safely and effectively. Abilene’s focus on GWO training aligns perfectly with these goals, providing a platform for individuals to acquire the expertise needed to thrive in the dynamic and vital field of wind energy. Through comprehensive training programs, practical experience, and a dedication to excellence, STL USA’s Abilene GWO training center contributes to a safer, more efficient, and more promising renewable energy landscape.

 

 

GWO Training center Abilene, Texas

One of the highest towers in use in the USA for GWO training.

 

Comprehensive training all in one place

The set-up of STL USA’s GWO training in Abilene is designed so that wind techs can train everything under one roof. This helps reduce customer overheads for training and cuts down on the time required to get technicians the certs they need.

Get help with a training course

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Personal Rescue device for Wind technicians

Wind Escape personal rescue

No fuss personal rescue for high pressure scenarios

Few scenarios are more stressful and pressurized than having to evacuate from a wind turbine due to injury or the risk of injury. Wind technicians receive a huge amount of training and have a number of devices at their disposal to ensure they can get out when the pressure is on and there is a real risk to life and limb.

There tend to be 2 kinds of devices favored by technician teams, single-use, personal rescue devices, and rescue systems. We’re big fans of both, but especially equipment that takes into account the situations when they are likely to be used.

Complicated is not your friend

The Wind Escape personal rescue has been designed as a no-fuss, easy-to-use rescue device with an anti-panic function. Why? because complicated is not your friend in a real rescue or evacuation scenario. The key is the high-pressure scenario, which affects our ability to perform tasks we are otherwise skilled at. Think of a kicker missing a high-pressure kick in a football game. In practice, they likely hit almost all their kicks so why miss something they should be able to do with ease – pressure? 

This is no different from a high-pressure situation in a wind turbine. Skills we thought we had down can sometimes disappear, we panic and that’s why we believe the Wind Escape has the edge put simply it’s designed with this in mind.

Key features 

Minimum use temperature of -30°C.
– It incorporates a 5mm diameter Technora rope resistant to high temperature and tears.
– Easy maintenance thanks to its vacuum packaging that simplifies the revision.
– Customisable rope length of up to 200m.
– CE EN 341:2011/2D: working load 40 – 120kg.
– ANSI Z359.4-2013: working load 60 – 141kg.
– 200m version’s weight: 4.4kg.

Learn more 

Get in touch with a member of our knowledgeable team and find out how you can get the best training and save money along the way.

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GWO BTT Bolt Tightening & GWO BTT Installation

GWO BTT Bolt Tightening & GWO BTT Installation

New GWO BTT Bolt Tightening & GWO BTT Installation courses from STL USA

As many of you will be aware there has been quite a major change to the GWO Basic Technical Training in the v8 release this May. This has seen the addition of the GWO BTT Bolt Tightening module which sits alongside the core modules of Electrical, Hydraulic, and Mechanical forming a 4 module standard BTT course.

STL USA has added GWO BTT Bolt Tightening & GWO BTT Installation to our course portfolio enabling us to offer a combination of BTT modules dependent on customer needs.

To date, STL USA is still the only US-based training provider to offer GWO BTT Bolt Tightening

GWO Entry-level framework shakes things up

Take up of the GWO Entry-Level Framework continues at pace with many of STL USA’s customers adopting the guidelines for training requirements for new and existing technicians.

 Alongside ACP’s micro-credentials these frameworks represent a further standardisation of skills across the industry which brings clarity and improves performance levels. STL USA is a big supporter of these initiatives as they will be vital to ensure that the fast-growing workforce has the skills required to keep the entire wind industry moving in the right direction.

Get ahead of the game with STL USA

Many of the leading OEMs and site owners are pushing hard for GWO adoption across their supply chains with tight deadlines to ensure technicians have all the required certificates. STL USA is well placed to train across the entire range of courses from our world-leading training center in Abilene, Texas, and at client locations across the country.

 

 

Learn more 

Get in touch with a member of our knowledgeable team and find out how you can get the best training and save money along the way.

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Digital wind training coming soon

Digital wind training coming soon

Digital wind training coming soon from STL USA

The whole team at STL USA is getting excited for the launch of STL USA Digital, a comprehensive digital learning and management platform exclusively for the wind industry.

STL USA Digital has been designed to offer practical benefits to both wind techs and companies who require training and learning solutions. 

Avoiding digital for digital’s sake

Led by our VP Ben Dickens the digital project has been focussed on 3 key user and customer benefits.

  • Ease of use/improves efficiency
  • Improvement in customer satisfaction
  • Improvement in training and learning quality

This user focussed approach ensures that STL USA continues to offer best in class solutions, focussed on the needs of customers.

We strongly believe that STL USA Digital will make the overall experience of wind tech education better, enabling more learning opportunities on a more regular basis. This ties into STL USA’s long term vision which is to help build a future proof workforce for wind.

As we grow and develop STL USA Digital we anticipate it becoming the go to resource for this fast moving industry.

 

STL USA is well-placed to lead in digital

If you had a penny for every time someone wanted to build an app!

Sadly, and particularly within b2b industries, diving into digital transformation without a clear idea of what needs to be achieved is all to common. It was something that has preyed on our minds throughout the project. Focussing on the customer has helped us keep on track for a solution that works and more importantly delivers value.

However, we have had a bit of head start. STL USA Digital has been steered by North American VP Ben Dickens who brings over 20 years experience in building digital and integrated solutions. Ben’s background in marketing and tech has been invaluable and can certainly be said to be unique amongst USA wind training providers. Previous projects Ben has led include AI learning solutions, LMS solutions, travel apps, digital finance and banking, it’s a big list. It’s also vitally important as this experience feeds directly into the digital solution and m makes sure it does what it says on the tin.

 

Get ahead of the queue

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