Photo courtesy of REpower Systems AG

On March 30, 2010 WIRE-Net’s School-to-Career students blew into Elyria Ohio to check out Lorain County Community College’s (LCCC) new degree in Alternative Energy Technology – the Wind Turbine Major. School-to-Career students were in good company with this tour; just a few months earlier President Obama was in town to tour this exciting program, as well.

The tour was led by Duncan Estep, the Program Coordinator for Alternative Energy Technology Programs. He shared with the students the opportunities available in this exciting and growing field. Upon graduating with their two-year Associate’s Degree, students at LCCC will be prepared for jobs in design, testing, R & D, maintenance, and installation of wind turbines. Students may also choose to move on to another local college or university to complete their Bachelor’s Degree.

In addition to learning about careers in this in-demand field, the students learned where in the country wind energy is best generated and about plans to build off shore wind turbines in Cleveland.

And even more good news - the future looks bright for students who choose this career path. According to O*Net over 40,000 jobs will be created in this field in the next 10 years. The Alternative Energy Technology Wind Turbine Major is the first of its kind in Ohio. More information about the program can be found at www.lorainccc.edu/energy.