Wind farms need techs to keep running

[jpak]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080202/ap_on_bi_ge/wind_energy_tech_shortage;_ylt=Aloadf5WiCdq8m8nWZxow3Ks0NUE

LINCOLN, Kan. - The line of towering wind turbines stand motionless on the ridgeline above Interstate 70 in central Kansas, Y-shaped silhouettes amid the swirling snow.

Despite the weather, dozens of technicians are working to get the 10-mile-long Smoky Hills Wind Farm ready to begin producing electricity.

Jason Martinson, who is supervising the 56-turbine operation on behalf of Enel North America Inc., said after almost a decade in the industry he's still amazed by how fast wind farms like Smoky Hills are going up across the country. But he also said workers like those braving the blizzard-like conditions outside his office are becoming increasingly rare.

"Finding experienced techs is impossible with wind growing as fast as it is," Martinson said. "You get one year's worth of experience and it's like dog years."

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[Viva_La_Revolution]

1. experience requirements...

From a help-wanted ad...

Position requires 5 years of experience in industrial maintenance and competency with electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems. Selected candidates will be performing field maintenance, mechanical repair, rigging and live electrical troubleshooting to include large component replacements. Must be able to read and interpret maintenance and repair documents.
Candidates will be required to pass various examinations pertaining to electrical safety, schematics, symbols, troubleshooting, and hydraulic diagrams, as well as a hands-on skills test.
Technicians will spend 100% of their time in the field, excluding safety and training exercises, and may be required work in extreme weather conditions. A company truck will be provided, therefore all applicants must possess a valid Driver's License, or be able to obtain one prior to scheduling an interview/testing.
http://www.gojobs.com/seeker/JobDetail.asp?JobNum=4918230&JBID=39


For anyone who's interested in changing careers. :)