Wind Energy Engineers

Certification or Licensing

Wind energy engineers who work on projects that affect the property, health, or life of the public typically pursue licensure. Licensing for engineers is in two levels. Professional Engineers (PEs) have graduated from an accredited engineering curriculum, have four years of engineering experience, and have passed a written exam. Engineering graduates need not wait until they have four years of experience, however, to start the licensure process. Those who pass the Fundamentals of Engineering examination after graduating are called Engineers in Training (EITs) or Engineer Interns (EIs). The EIT certification usually is valid for 10 years. After acquiring suitable work experience, EITs can take the second examination, the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, to gain full PE licensure. Find information on licensing and examination requirements at https://ncees.org.

Wind energy industry workers who are employed in positions that may affect the power grid must be certified by the North American Energy Reliability Corporation.

The Midwest Renewable Energy Association certifies renewable energy site assessors in wind technology (home-sized systems). The North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals offers certification to small wind power installers. The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies and the Electronics Technicians Association International also offer certification programs.

SME offers certification to manufacturing engineers. The Association of Energy Engineers also offers certification in a variety of specialties. To be considered for certification, a candidate must meet eligibility standards such as a minimum of three years of relevant work experience and membership in a professional organization. Most programs consist of classroom work and an examination.