Wind center offering certification training

The North American Wind Research and Training Center at Mesalands Community College will be offering a new summer 15-week program for an Occupational Certificate in Basic Wind Energy Technology. This 15-week program is the result of another successful short certification training that was offered earlier this year.

In February the college offered a 12-week program that is currently training 20 students ranging in ages from 18 to 61, with the common of goal of acquiring future employment.

"The response to the 12-week program was overwhelming. It has been so positive, we have a full classroom of students that are doing very well," Jim Morgan, Director of the North American Wind Research and Training Center said. "Obviously there are many people in New Mexico that are in dire need of a job and this program gave them an opportunity to get a skill, which will give them a leg up in getting a job."

Students in the 15-week program will gain real-world training experience on the college's on-campus 1.5-megawatt wind turbine. Students will also learn wind turbine technology, turbine maintenance, tower safety, and wind economics. Course topics include studies in electricity, hydraulics, and mechanics.

Financial assistance is available for those who meet specific qualifications.

Classes start May 7 and will end Aug. 17. The first three weeks of class may be taken via the Internet for students that are unable to be on campus until after the May 7 start date. The first three weeks will also be offered live on campus covering the same material.

For information, visit http://www.mesalands.edu/wind or call 461-4413, ext. 156.