NSCC to launch wind turbine technician program in 2026
Nova Scotia Community College officials have announced an exciting new one-year program for wind turbine technicians at the Strait Area Campus in Port Hawkesbury, Cape Breton. The program is set to welcome an average of 15 students annually starting in the fall of 2026.
This innovative program is the first of its kind in Nova Scotia, filling a crucial gap in the province’s workforce. Patty Charlton, the manager of NSCC’s School of Technology and Environment, emphasized the importance of addressing the growing demand for skilled technicians as Nova Scotia aims to generate 50% of its electricity from wind energy by 2030.
With the rise of wind energy projects in the region, including offshore turbines, the need for trained professionals to install and maintain these systems has never been greater. Charlton highlighted the significance of preparing technicians to work on onshore turbines initially, before expanding the program to include offshore components by 2035.
The Strait Area Campus is well-equipped to provide comprehensive training for future wind turbine technicians. The presence of the NSCC’s Nautical Institute on campus offers unique opportunities for hands-on learning in a marine environment. The institute features state-of-the-art facilities such as a marine navigation simulator, support vessels, a wave tank, and a fire training facility.
Vivek Saxena, the principal of the Strait Area Campus, noted that the college’s assets align perfectly with the training requirements for the offshore wind industry. The decision to launch the program at the Port Hawkesbury campus was a natural choice due to its strategic location and cutting-edge facilities.
As the demand for renewable energy continues to grow, the new wind turbine technician program at the NSCC’s Strait Area Campus is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of Nova Scotia’s energy sector. Students enrolled in the program will receive top-notch training and hands-on experience to prepare them for rewarding careers in the booming wind energy industry.
