A new report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimates that by 2030, the demand for wind energy workers in the US could reach 258,000, while the supply of full-time workers might only reach 134,000, resulting in a shortfall of approximately 124,000 workers [edfb608c]. In response to this growing demand, Avangrid's National Training Center in Sherman County, Oregon, opened in the summer of 2024, aiming to equip new technicians with the necessary skills and safety training [d7993a29]. The first class, which began in September 2024, included 10 students and is part of a broader effort to address the anticipated 60% growth in wind technician jobs from 2023 to 2033 [d7993a29].
The NREL report suggests that educational training programs, such as the US Department of Energy Collegiate Wind Competition, could help meet the growing demand for trained wind energy workers. The study is the first to use a system dynamics model to quantify the wind energy workforce gap. It identifies strategies to close this gap, including collaboration between industry and educational institutions, the establishment of internship and apprenticeship programs, and partnerships with community-based organizations focused on diversity and inclusion [57c736aa].
At Avangrid's training center, technicians like Juan Flores, who has 14 years of experience, provide hands-on training that includes fall protection tower safety and a virtual reality room for troubleshooting [d7993a29]. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between the projected demand and supply of wind energy workers, ensuring that students are aware of opportunities in the wind industry and receive the necessary training and support to pursue careers in this field. By implementing the strategies outlined in the NREL report and utilizing training facilities like Avangrid's, the US can build a skilled and diverse workforce in the renewable energy sector, supporting the expansion of the wind industry and contributing to a clean and sustainable energy future [57c736aa].