Wind Energy

Course Catalog

The Wind Energy Technology diploma provides students with a basic understanding of wind energy technology. The program is designed to train students in safety, electricity, wind energy, hydraulics and generators. It will prepare participants for an entry-level position in the industry.

To obtain the Diploma in Wind Energy Technology...


Students must complete the Basic Wind Energy Technology Certificate (16 credits) and the Advanced Wind Energy Technology Certificate (15 credits). In addition to completing the two certificates in Wind Energy Technology, students are required to take Communications, English, and Applied Physics. Communications (Comm 101), English (ENG 103), and Applied Physics (PHY 103) are offered during the summer term, which is 8 weeks. Students learn and apply Math in the courses. Students are required to have 39 credits to receive the Wind Energy Technology Diploma. Students may take any individual course without being in the Wind Energy program as long as they meet the course prerequisites, have the instructor’s permission, and space is available in the class.

WE 101 Introduction to Wind Energy

(Fall Semester)

Credits 4

Class 3 Hours

Lab 2 Hours


Applies fundamental principles of thermodynamic, fluid mechanics and mechanical systems to wind turbine engineering. Emphasizes fundamentals of horizontal-axis wind turbines. Applies wind energy conversion, wind turbine aerodynamics, performance, and design of wind turbine components to the building of wind turbines. Covers an overview of wind resource and historical development of wind turbines and introduction of wind turbine installation and wind farm operation. Team-based projects are an integral part of this course.

WE 102 Industrial Safety and Climbing Techniques 

(Fall Semester) 

Credits 2

Class 1 Hour

Lab 2 Hours

WE 102 Industrial Safety and Climbing Techniques (Fall Semester) The Industrial Climber course is intended to give initial knowledge for persons who will be expected to work within a defined safe system of work. Focuses on the climbing and rigging skills required to climb, install, and maintain wind turbine equipment. Provides a balance between information provided and the practical skills enforced.

WE 200 Basic Electricity

(Fall Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours

Examines the generation, theory and use of electricity. Included in this course will be electrical and shop safety, study of AC and DC theory, AC and DC circuits and their components, electrical symbols, and the proper use of electrical test equipment.

WE 210 Electric Motors and Generators

(Fall Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours

Focuses on electric motors and generators as tools in the transfer and conversion of wind energy. Explains how applied kinetic energy inputs (wind power) convert into electrical energy using electrical motors and generators

WE 250 Basics Hydraulics  

(Fall Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours 

Introduces basic hydraulic and pneumatic systems and devices found in wind turbines. Covers underlying scientific principles and their practical applications. Students will also learn how to read hydraulic schematics and troubleshoot basic hydraulic components. Reinforces the principles learned in class through hands-on experiments in the laboratory

BP102 Blueprint Reading-Wind Energy

(Spring Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours

Fundamentals, principles, and practices involved in producing and reading blueprints utilized in the different sectors of the wind energy industry with a focus on basic blueprint reading.

WE 103 Wind Energy Maintenance and Repair

(Spring Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours

Emphasizes practical maintenance, installation, and procedures for repair and replacement of wind turbine equipment.

WE 201 Advanced Electricity

(Spring Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours

Focuses on power systems and the production of electricity. Explains the working of components of power systems and provides tools for power flow analysis and stability of power systems.

WE 230 Mechanical Systems (Spring Semester)

Credits 3

Class 2 Hours

Lab 2 Hours

Overviews the principles, concepts, and applications of mechanisms found in an industrial plant. Covers belt drive systems, chains, chain drives, conveyor belts, conveyor systems, bearings, sheaves, lubrication, sprockets, and mechanical fasteners. Emphasizes practical maintenance, installation, and procedures for repair and replacement. Covers bearing vibration and thermal imaging diagnostics.

WE 260 On-Site Training

(Spring Semester)

Credits 3

Class 1 Hours

Lab 4 Hours

On-Site Training in the Tarkio Tech nacelle will introduce students to industry standards of safety, operation and maintenance of wind turbines, and project operations.


Note: Transferability of credits is subject to the admitting college and university's willingness to accept credits from Tarkio Technology Institute. It is the receiving institution that determines which, if any, credits will be accepted. Before taking courses for transfer, the student should check with the college or university to ascertain if the credits will be accepted.

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