Terrill Stowe, a technician instructor, is no stranger to living on the edge. With almost 14 years of experience under his belt, he is perched almost 300 feet above the New Mexico plains, strapped to the roof of a wind turbine’s generator. As he jokes with AFP journalists about the possibility of someone falling, the sheer thrill of the job is evident. The giant wind turbine towering over Tucumcari is not only a landmark but also a training ground for new technicians looking to join the booming wind industry.
The wind industry in the United States has experienced exponential growth over the past decade. With around 75,000 large turbines spread across the country, the sector now produces enough electricity to power 40 million American homes. However, this rapid expansion has presented challenges in terms of training an adequate number of skilled workers to maintain these turbines. Technicians like Stowe play a crucial role in training the next generation of wind turbine specialists, with each semester seeing 10 to 20 new students eager to learn the ropes.
Nathaniel Alexander and Kevin Blea, two young men trained by Stowe in Tucumcari, represent a new wave of recruits in the wind industry. Their motivation ranges from a passion for clean energy to the prospect of well-paying jobs. With the opportunity to earn between $50,000 to $90,000 per year after completing a two-year degree costing $6,000 to $10,000, the appeal of joining the wind industry is undeniable. Despite the political divide in the region, with many residents hesitating to credit Democrats for the industry’s success, the tangible benefits of working in clean energy are undeniable.
Challenges and Rewards
Safety has always been a primary concern for wind turbine technicians. Stowe recalls the drastic change in safety standards from his early days working in the field. From crawling on icy turbine roofs in extreme weather conditions to the modern-day emphasis on safe working conditions, the industry has come a long way in protecting its workers. Despite the hazards and challenges, technicians like Blea find immense satisfaction in their work. The thrill of being the first one up the tower and witnessing the breathtaking views each morning outweighs the occasional hardships they face on the job.
A Bright Future
As the wind industry continues to expand and evolve, the demand for skilled technicians will only increase. With advancements in technology and government incentives driving the sector forward, the future looks promising for those willing to take on the challenges of working in renewable energy. The men and women who climb these towering turbines every day are not just technicians but daredevils, adventurers, and pioneers shaping the future of clean energy.
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