Technical training courses for wind technicians

Technical training courses for wind technicians

Teaching technician skills.

STL USA is delighted to announce the expansion of our technical training courses for wind technicians. Wind Technician Technical Training is a vital component for new hires and experienced technicians alike. This is where technicians learn the skills to do the job, usually alongside taking their safety certificates, GWO.

What are the courses?

STL USA has split technical training courses for wind technicians into two categories. Our Basic Intro and Basic Intro Plus courses are off-the-shelf packages that align with ACP/ANSI minimum requirements. We then have a vast range of technical modules that allow customers to build a program suited specifically to their needs. 

Basic intro courses

The Basic intro courses for wind technicians cover the following:

Basic Intro

  • AC/DC basics
  • Motor controls
  • Schematics
  • Digital multimeter
  • Basic troubleshooting
  • 5 day course

Basic Intro Plus

  • Basic intro modules, plus
  • MCE – Up tower troubleshooting/training (gearbox & generator) 
  • Platform-specific converter
  • Boroscope
  • 10-day course
These courses have been developed in line with industry requirements and customer feedback. They provide a great ground for new technicians and can be taken alongside GWO and NFPA certification for a complete new hire package. For employers these solutions are a great way to ensure their new hires get the right training, taking the hassle out of dealing with this in-house. Numbers can be scaled up and down and of course, there are no overheads when people aren’t being trained
Bespoke training options

Company training requirements differ from business to business and this is where STL USA bespoke technical training comes into its own. Taking a bespoke option allows you to hand-pick from a large range of modules to build a course that’s unique to your needs. Have technicians who have very different roles. No problem. Your package can be split into a number of disciplines to accommodate the requirements of different teams. These modules include:

Wind skills
 
Introduction to Turbine Generators
Oscilloscopes
Failure Analysis
Maintaining Bearings
Precision Measuring Instruments
Hydraulic System Operation
Hydraulic Pumps, Pumping Principles and Accumulators
Pressure Controls
Directional and Flow Controls
Hydraulic Actuators
Fundamentals of Lubrication
Lubrication Maintenance
Introduction to Mechanical Print Reading
Lines Used in Mechanical Print Reading
Dimensions in Mechanical Print Reading
Mechanical Seals
Hand Operated Equipment
Forklifts and Cranes
Principles and Practices of Predictive Maintenance
Vibration Analysis
Lubricant and Trend Analysis
Techniques for Extending Bearing Life
Principles of Reverse Double Dial Alignment
Reverse Double Dial Alignment Procedure
Pressure Measurement
Flow Measurement
Temperature Measurement
Level Measurement
Calibration Principles
Calibrating Pressure and Differential Pressure Instruments
Calibrating Flow Instruments
Calibrating Level Instruments
Pneumatic and Hydraulic Test Devices
Electronic Test Devices
Calibrating Meteorological Instrumentation
 Boroscope

Foundational skills

AC Motor Theory
AC Motor Maintenance
DC Motor Theory
DC Motor Maintenance
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Limit Switches
Switches, Coils, and Overloads
Troubleshooting Electrical Control Circuits
Inverters: Operation and Maintenance

Multimeters
Ammeters, Meggers and Wheatstone Bridge
Electrical Schematics
Electrical Diagrams
Principles of Operation
Interpreting Ladder Logic
Programmable Controllers for Analog Control
Introduction to Transformers
Transformer operations and maintenance

Hand Tools
Torque and Tensioning
Ladders and Scaffolding

Distributed Control Fundamentals
Maintaining Distributed Control Systems
Electronic Controllers
Calibrating Temperature Instruments
Instruments In Hazardous Environments

Safety 

NFPA 70E low and high voltage

GWO Control of Hazardous Energies

 

As you can see the options are extensive. STL USA believes this offers the perfect training options for an industry that is moving quickly, needs to hire aggressively but is committed to ensuring technician safety and competency.

Interested in training with STL USA

Click the link to find out more 

GWO Bundle training courses

GWO Bundle training courses

Build additional value into your GWO training.

As the market is ramping up hiring and growth STL USA has worked hard to develop a range of GWO Bundle training courses. GWO Bundle training combines the well know GWO courses with a range of additional certification. 

What are the courses?

Courses include

  1. GWO BST & Confined Space Awareness
  2. GWO ART & Confined space rescue
  3. GWO BTT & Schematics
  4. GWO CoHE & NFPA &70E
  5. GWO Lift & 3s Lift User
Does this mean more training time?

In most cases no. We’ve taken the requirements from each part of the bundle and created a combined curricullum that meets both. Crucially we’ve done this in a way that requires no additional training time for the technician. This means more value and more skills and knowledge for participants.

Where can I take these courses?

Bundle courses can be taken at an STL USA facility or onsite at your wind farm of office location. Don’t have a tower? No problem we can come to you with our mobile training trailer and offer you a complete training experience at your site.

What about cost savings?

We know technicians need to acquire more than just GWO certificates. That’s why we’ve bundled GWO training with a range of universally popular training courses. Like GWO Control of Hazardous energies and NFPA 70E electrical safety training. Both are must-haves for technicians in the field. 

By creating a curriculum that meets the requirements of both we’ve been able to keep contact time down to purely the GWO timeframe. That means no additional training days and no more additional overheads.

Course delivery can be done in a variety of formats that combine both digital and face-to-face formats. This is a great way to further reduce time away from site by taking the theory elements of the courses online in advance of purely practical face-to-face training to complete the course.

Interested in training with STL USA

Click the link to find out more 

Keeping costs down, wind tech mobile training solutions for 2024

mobile wind tech training

Train onsite, save time and money.

As the requirements for certifications increase across the industry, it’s never been more vital that training solutions are sensitive to costs and time impacts for employers.

With this in mind, STL USA is expanding its mobile/onsite training offer for 2024 on the back of a highly successful series of onsite GWO training courses delivered across the US this year.

Why train with STL USA?

The STL USA team has years of wind tech teaching experience, plus they have all spent time in the field doing the same jobs as the technicians they teach. STL USA is at the forefront of wind tech training, often the first to bring new courses to the industry. STL USA is trusted by the biggest companies in wind to deliver. The team has trained onsite for people like GE and Siemens throughout 2023.

Why train onsite?

Onsite training is a great option if you have access to a wind site. You can cut out the need for travel and accomodation costs if your techs are local to the site, and because your team remains onsite they are available if they are needed.

How does it work?

The STL USA team can visit your site with a mobile training rig for rescue and working at height modules, the rest of the course can run in a meeting room or similar that will serve as a classroom, and that’s it.

Add your site to our 2024 plans

Fill in the form to add your site to our 2024 onsite plans. There is no obligation to book training. Once we have a draft schedule in place this will be sent to you for consideration.

Unlocking the Potential of Wind Energy: Preparing College Students for the Booming Workforce

Unlocking the Potential of Wind Energy

Working together for a bright future for wind

The wind energy industry in the United States is on the brink of a major transformation. As the country shifts towards sustainable and renewable energy sources to combat climate change and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, the demand for skilled workers in the wind energy sector is poised to explode. This growing demand presents a unique challenge and opportunity for colleges and universities across the nation. How can these institutions prepare their students to enter the workforce of this booming industry, which promises a brighter, greener future for the United States?

The Wind Energy Boom in the USA

The United States has witnessed a remarkable expansion in wind energy production in recent years. With a rapidly increasing number of wind farms across the country, wind energy has become a major contributor to the nation’s energy mix. According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), the wind industry has created over 120,000 jobs, and wind energy capacity has grown by 6% in 2020 alone. This remarkable growth is largely attributed to the renewable energy initiatives that aim to achieve 100% clean energy in various states.

The reasons behind this surge are multifaceted. Wind energy is not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable. It offers a means of generating power with minimal greenhouse gas emissions, making it a critical part of the clean energy landscape. Additionally, the U.S. government has provided incentives and tax credits for wind energy projects, further driving investment in the sector. This combination of environmental responsibility and economic incentives positions wind energy as a powerhouse of opportunity for the job market.

The Skills Gap in Wind Energy

While the wind energy industry is poised to expand exponentially, there is a significant challenge to overcome: the skills gap. As the demand for skilled workers surges, there is a scarcity of qualified individuals to fill these positions. The skills required for careers in the wind energy sector are specialized and demand a unique blend of knowledge and hands-on experience.

Roles in wind energy include wind turbine technicians, engineers, project managers, environmental consultants, and more. These positions require skills in areas such as mechanical and electrical engineering, data analysis, project management, environmental science, and renewable energy technologies. With the specialized nature of these roles, colleges and universities must address the gap by developing targeted programs that equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge.

How Colleges Can Prepare Students for the Wind Energy Workforce?

To address the growing demand for skilled workers in the wind energy sector, colleges and universities need to take proactive steps. Here are some key strategies they can employ:

Tailored Curriculum: Colleges should develop and offer specialized programs and courses in renewable energy and wind technology. These programs should provide students with a strong foundation in the principles of wind energy, including wind turbine technology, energy generation, and environmental impact assessments.

Hands-On Experience: Practical training is crucial in preparing students for the workforce. Collaborations with wind energy companies, internships, and apprenticeships can offer students the hands-on experience they need to thrive in the field. Colleges can also consider establishing their own wind energy labs or partnerships with existing facilities.

Industry Partnerships: Collaborating with wind energy companies and industry associations can help colleges stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and job requirements. These partnerships can also lead to research opportunities and job placement programs. A number of institutions already partner with STL USA to help deliver industry accreditations that improve student’s employability in the sector.

Renewable Energy Research: Encouraging research in renewable energy and wind technology can not only contribute to the field but also provide students with opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving. By working on cutting-edge projects, students can gain valuable experience and expertise.

Inclusivity and Diversity: To ensure a well-rounded and diverse workforce in the wind energy sector, colleges should focus on inclusivity and diversity in their programs. Encouraging underrepresented groups to pursue careers in renewable energy is essential for building a workforce that reflects the broader population.

Continuing Education: Wind energy is an ever-evolving field, with new technologies and practices emerging regularly. Colleges should offer continuing education and professional development programs to help current industry professionals stay up-to-date and adapt to changing requirements.

Sustainability Education: Given the environmental nature of wind energy, it is essential for colleges to incorporate sustainability education into their programs. Students should understand not only how wind energy works but also the broader environmental implications and benefits of renewable energy sources.

The role of colleges and universities in preparing students for the booming wind energy workforce is pivotal. As the United States continues its transition towards sustainable energy sources, educational institutions have a unique opportunity to nurture the talent needed to drive this transformation. By offering specialized programs, fostering industry partnerships, and promoting hands-on experience, colleges can equip their students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the growing wind energy sector. In doing so, they play a vital role in accelerating the nation’s transition to a greener and more sustainable future.

Interested in partnering with STL USA

Click the link to find out more about our dedicated program for schools and colleges

GWO Lift user and 3S Climb auto system user training

GWO Lift Training

Train GWO Lift user and 3S Climb auto system use with STL USA

STL USA has launched another new range of courses. GWO Lift Training (all modules) and 3S Climb Autosystem and Climb assist user training. The STL USA team has also created a combined course for companies looking to gain a GWO certification and qualify their personnel to operate 3S systems.

Both training courses, combined, are available from STL USA’s Abilene, TX headquarters. Additionally these courses will become available onsite from 2024.

As lift systems become ever more popular and the requirements to have GWO certification expand STL USA is well-positioned to help customers achieve these qualifications. 

GWO Lift user training

GWO Lift Training comprises of 3 modules:

User, 1/2 day course

Commissioning and inspection, 1 day course 

Commission, inspection, installation and maintenance, 2 day course

Modules can be taken individually or in combination, 3S certificates can additionally be added to these courses with no significant increase in training time.

3S Climb Auto system user training

The 3S user training allows technicians to safely operate the 3S assisted systems. It’s a requirement that anyone using these systems takes user training. Normally this is delivered at installation and then at maintenance periods throughtout the lifetime. That means however that anyone who misses this training, new hires, visiting contractors for example will be unable to gain this certificate from 3S. That’s why STL USA has partnered with 3S to offer the training course year round.

Training covers:

1. Climb Auto System Simple Operation Guide

2. Explanation of Symbols

3. Pre-Operation Considerations

4. Product Description

5. Product Structure

6. Product Operation

7. Inspection and Maintenance

8. Annual Inspection and Maintenance

9. Spare Parts Ordering

10. Storage

11. Environmental Protection Requirements

12. Emergency Evacuation Instruction

13. Troubleshooting

 

The combined course

Many of the lesson areas overlap between these two training courses. With that in mind STL USA has created a combined course to cover both. This can be taken by technicians in the same timescale as the GWO courses.

Scheduling

As a dedicated wind technician training company STL USA aims to have course availability every month for all the courses delivered. The easiest way to get more information and to book a course is to speak to a member of the STL USA team, Follow the link below to get started.

Book Lift user training

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

GWO BTT Bolt Tightening

GWO BTT Bolt Tightening & GWO BTT Installation

1st US provider to launch new BTT Bolt Tightening

STL USA are delighted to announce we are the first North American GWO trainer to offer BTT Bolt Tightening

STL USA has recently been successfully audited to launch the new BTT Bolt Tightening course. This course will sit alongside the traditional BTT course electrical, hydraulic and mechanical to form a new 4-module BTT. Course attendees will also be able to take BTT Bolt alongside BTT Mechanical and Installation for those working in pre-assembly and installation roles. 

The whole team at STL USA is super proud of the work put in by our training staff to develop this course and expand our range of training across the whole of the entry-level framework. It’s now clearer than ever for companies in wind to understand the skills and training their people need which is a great move for the industry.

Working with GWO to launch the course

In the run up to the launch of the BTT Bolt standard STL USA we’re able to work closely with GWO Project Manager who was developing the standard. This was great for both entities as STL USA could provide practical feedback on the application of the standard in training and GWO was able to share the standard standards before launch. It really was a win-win.

Key areas of GWO Bolt Tightening

At course completion attendees will be able to act independently to safely plan, carry out and complete generic bolt torquing and tensioning tasks to
specification using energy-powered equipment. The module covers both how to tighten bolts safely and correctly, and how to plan, document, and review bolt-tightening tasks.

Find out More

Speak to a member of the team.

New GWO courses for 2023

new gwo courses

All new GWO courses for 2023

New GWO courses aligned to the GWO entry level framework and ACP entry level training guide

We’re delighted to announce new GWO courses for 2023. But first a little background on their importance.

As many of you know GWO and ACP have been working hard in unison to launch guidance on training and skills expectations for new and existing wind technicians.  From GWO ‘s perspective, this comes in the form of the Entry Level Wind Technician Framework, for ACP it is the Entry Level Wind Technician training guidelines. Crucially the ACP guide includes many of the core GWO courses.

In both cases, the aim is to offer a simplified set of profiles and corresponding skills and accreditations that each should achieve. This gives employers a clear framework to follow with guidance that aims to ensure a comprehensive understanding of entry-level requirements for operations and maintenance wind technicians for onshore and offshore wind facilities.

More info here:

ACP

GWO

New BTT courses – BTT Bolt Tightening, BTT Installation

The May 2023 update to BTT included the addition of a new course, BTT Bolt TIghtening, which sits alongside the existing Mechanical, Electrical, and Hydraulic courses as part of the core BTT training. In addition, STL USA has also added BTT Installation, which is taken with BTT Mechanical for those technicians that focus on pre-assembly and installation projects. Both courses form a core part of the entry-level frameworks for wind technicians and are available from mid-July.

New Control of Hazardous Energies (CoHE) courses

Hazardous energies pose a high risk of injury to all workers working within the wind industry. One of the reasons for this is that hazardous energies are found in various forms within the wind turbine environment and within the environment of a wind farm.

The CoHE course is a core component of the entry-level framework, formed of three modules covering basic safety, electrical safety, and pressure fluid safety. Available in mid-July.

New Lift courses

STL USA is delighted to be adding GWO lift training from our facility, using 3S lift equipment.

Training in accordance with this Lift Standard will enable participants to take responsibility to support and care for themselves and others while operating and working on a lift in the wind industry. This is vitally important as lifts become more and more commonplace in newer turbines. Available mid-July.

 

Improving standardization

It has been a clear goal of industry bodies to provide a level of standardization across the wind industry to ensure consistency across skills, accreditations, and competence. But above all, it gives employers certainty in the expectations for their staff. STL USA is a major supporter of this drive.

Find out More

Speak to a member of the team.

Personal rescue device – Wind Escape

Personal rescue device

True innovation in personal rescue

Wind Escape: A Rescue Descender for Wind

The Wind Escape is a personal rescue descender designed for use in wind, telecommunications, industry, and oil and gas. It features an auto-lock, two or one-hand descent, anti-panic braking, smooth horizontal movement, shock absorption, and partner rescue features.

Auto-Lock

The Wind Escape’s auto-lock feature provides a secure hold when the user is not actively descending. This prevents the user from accidentally slipping or falling.

Two or One-Hand Descent

The Wind Escape can be descended with either one or two hands. This makes it ideal for use in situations where the user’s hands may be occupied, such as when carrying a load or helping another person.

Anti-Panic Braking

The Wind Escape’s anti-panic braking system helps to prevent the user from losing control of the descender in the event of a panic. This can be a lifesaver in situations where the user is feeling overwhelmed or scared.

Smooth Horizontal Movement

The Wind Escape’s smooth horizontal movement allows the user to move freely while descending. This is important in situations where the user may need to navigate around obstacles or uneven terrain.

Shock Absorption

The Wind Escape’s shock absorption system helps to protect the user from injury in the event of a fall. This is important in situations where the user may be descending from a great height.

Partner Rescue

The Wind Escape’s partner rescue features allow the user to safely rescue another person who is in trouble. This can be a lifesaver in situations where the other person is unable to descend on their own.

 

The Wind Escape is a versatile and reliable rescue descender that is ideal for use in a variety of industries. It is easy to use and features a number of safety features that make it a valuable tool for any rescue worker.

 
Additional benefits of using the Wind Escape:
  • It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and store.
  • It is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand tough conditions.
  • It is backed by a warranty, which gives you peace of mind knowing that you are covered in the event of a problem.

If you are looking for a reliable and versatile rescue descender, the Wind Escape is a great option. It is a valuable tool for any rescue worker who needs to safely descend in a variety of conditions.

Technical Specifications

– Minimum use temperature of -30°C.
– It incorporates 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.

Find out More

Speak to a member of the team and arrange a demo

Rise of the wind techs – TCGM meet up

Rise of the wind techs - TCGM meet up

Join us June 9th in Abilene, TX.

STL USA is delighted to welcome the Tower Climbing Grease Monkey’s (TCGM) team on June 9th. 

The day will be split into two halves. In the morning the TCGM team will be at our Abilene facility to tour the site, have some fun on the tower, and meet with the STL USA team.

 

Then it’s over to the Mesquite event center where there’ll be food, drinks, and a chance for everyone to let their hair down.

Address details:

STL USA training center

Mesquite event center

 

We hope to see you there!

 

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STL USA working with education providers

stl usa working with education

A history of successful college partnerships

STL USA working with education providers has been a constant theme since we began offering wind technician training in the USA. Why? Because to partner with STL USA could not be more simple.

From the early days working with colleges in Michigan to ongoing partnerships with Texas State Technical College and Iowa Lakes Community College. STL USA has honed a process for simple implementation of commercial wind technician training, most specifically GWO accreditations, the default professional qualification for wind technicians and those looking to work in the field. 

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

COMPLIANT QUALITY MANAGEMENT SET UP

  • 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 have 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 partnership between STL USA and Texas State Technical College 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 jobs 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.

 

Learn more

Get in touch and talk to a team member now about GWO implementation