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Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician (WTMT) Apprenticeship

The National Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship is for people who
wish to pursue a career in the maintenance of
large scale commercial wind turbines.

The WTMT Apprenticeship adopts an ‘EARN WHILE YOU LEARN’ model so Apprentices are paid for the duration of their Apprenticeship.

The Apprenticeship is aimed at applicants who are looking to establish a rewarding career in the Irish Green and Renewable sector. It will provide training in occupational areas associated with the role of Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician, including health and safety, and maintenance and fault finding of electrical, mechanical, control and hydraulic systems.

“Qualified Wind Turbine Maintenance Technicians are in high demand.
Work is readily available in a range of Irish and European companies who operate in the domestic and European wind energy market…”

“

The WTMTA was designed with the assistance of the Wind Energy employers to provide an opportunity for those who want to work in an exciting industry that is evolving and holds a very bright and clear future for any aspiring apprentice to reach their goals in life.

WTMT Instructor
“

I like this apprenticeship because it’s so different. That’s the reason I went for it and I’m working in renewable energy, an industry of the future. That was really important, it meant I have a job I can travel with. I get paid as well, paid to learn.

WTMT Apprentice
“

This apprenticeship was developed by some of the world-leading organisations. Throughout your apprenticeship you will be working alongside most capable individuals from within the industry and be part of something that’s unique and special. If you really want to be part of a really bright and sustainable future this is an opportunity for you.

Renewable Industry Expert
“

Best decision I ever made to get into the industry. One of the reasons I got into a trade at all was to see the world. Once you’re qualified you can travel, especially when you’re with a bigger company you can transfer internally to different countries.

Wind Turbine Technician
“

The apprenticeship gave me confidence to start a new career in an industry that I would have found very daunting without the support of Kerry College.

WTMT Apprentice
“

This is the first time somebody can choose this path. A young girl or young fellow wanting to get involved in renewable energy business can now choose that career path and this is a genuine option. This is an exciting opportunity for anyone who is choosing a career in the renewables sector.

Renewable Industry Expert

Become a Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician

This apprenticeship was developed by a consortium of industry representatives and Kerry Education and Training Board has been appointed as the lead educational provider. It is designed to meet the needs of the growing Irish Renewable and Sustainable Energy sector.

It will equip learners with the knowledge, skills and competence to inspect and maintain various wind turbine system components, locate and diagnose faults, replace components and reconfigure systems.

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Entry Requirements

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The minimum age at which the employment of an apprentice may commence is 18 years of age.

The minimum education requirements are:

  • A qualification placed at Level 4 Major Award of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) (a Pass Leaving Certificate or equivalent), OR have at least three years trade-related experience.
  • Pass Grade in Maths at Level 3 (or equivalent).
  • A minimum English Language proficiency of B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) for speakers of English as a second language.
  • A minimum of 5 passes in a certificate placed at EQF Level 3 for holders of EU qualifications.
  • In a case where an applicant does not meet the educational requirements specified above, they must satisfactorily complete an informative panel interview facilitated by the Programme Manager.

All candidates will undergo Suitability Tests:

  • Medical fitness to work assessment
  • Colour vision test
  • Heights test

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I start?

Start by doing some research. Find out what is involved in the apprenticeship. Speak to people. Ask employers, qualified tradespersons and apprentices to get the insights of the industry. Get some advice from your parents/guardians, career guidance or adult guidance counsellors. For more information on the recruitment contact Kerry College Monavalley Campus to speak with the National Apprenticeship Programme Coordinator or one of the Senior Training Advisors.

What does the training consist of?

The programme is delivered over three years across seven phases. There are 4 off-the-job and 3 on-the-job stages:

Year 1
• Stage 1: 5 months (centre-based training)
• Stage 2: 7 months (work-based training)

Year 2
• Stage 3: 4 months (centre-based training)
• Stage 4: 8 months (work-based training)

Year 3
• Stage 5: 4 months (centre-based training)
• Stage 6: 7 months (work-based training)
• Stage 7: 1 month (centre-based training)

How do I become a WTMT Apprentice?

In order to secure an apprenticeship, you must first secure a contract with one of the SOLAS-approved employers from the Wind Industry sector. Once you have found an employer to take you on as an apprentice, you will need to undergo and pass all suitability tests before you are accepted on the apprenticeship. Alternatively, those applicants who do not manage to find an employer can apply directly to Kerry College by emailing their CV to [email protected] and they will be added to the applicants’ list.  Next, they will be interviewed by Kerry College and if successful, their details will be made available to the employers who will be selecting apprentices from the pool of candidates.  Next, the employers will organise their internal recruitment.  When employers identify their potential apprentices, then those candidates will have to undergo and pass the suitability tests organised by Kerry College.  On successful completion of all the recruitment stages, they will be offered a place on the apprenticeship and registered with SOLAS.

What are the eligibility criteria for applicants from a country outside of the EEA, Switzerland and the UK?

An individual’s eligibility for Further Education and Training, including apprenticeships is conditional on the individual’s nationality and circumstances, and may require one or more of the following:

  • Employment Permit
  • Stamp 4 Permission
  • Labour Market Permission Letter
  • Letter from the Minister for Justice granting them permission to work in the State.

Where can I attend this Apprenticeship?

Kerry College of Further Education and Training, Monavalley Campus in Tralee is the only training provider at the moment.  All the Off-the-Job Stages take place in Tralee.

What will I get paid?

For all New Apprenticeships, which have been developed since 2016, the employer pays an agreed Apprentice Rate or Salary for both on-the-job and off-the-job phases of the apprenticeship.  Apprentice’s terms and conditions of employment are agreed between each apprentice and their SOLAS approved employer.

Further details are available on: www.apprenticeship.ie

Co-ordinating Provider

Kerry Education
and Training Board,
Kerry College,
Monavalley Campus,
Monavalley,
Tralee,
Co. Kerry,
V92 PW50

Contact Us

066 714 9600

[email protected]

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