Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Ecotech Institute has bolstered its wind energy training capabilities with the addition of high–tech equipment that simulates operational and safety functions on large, commercial wind turbines.
The school's Wind Training Lab now contains a generator trainer, fiber optic splicing kit, specialty tools, a Lab–Volt Wind Turbine Nacelle Trainer, a Lab–Volt Wind Turbine Hub Trainer, and several wind farm simulation software packages.
"The integrated systems approach offered by Lab–Volt's Wind Turbine Training Simulators provide a very realistic view of the functionality and programming of a large, commercial wind turbine," added Shawn Lamb, program director at Ecotech Institute. "These are leading–edge technologies that effectively prepare students and get them excited about going into the field."
The Wind Safety Lab now includes a 25–foot climb and rescue tower, Miller Evolution Harnesses and Lanyards, Rescue Randy dummy, Miller Safe Escape Rescue Device, Lab–Volt cranes and a rigging trainer. Ecotech will also soon have a TorcUP torque and tensioning trainer.
Ecotech Institute's Wind Energy Technology program is a two–year associate's degree program focused on the generation and transmission of energy using wind power. Designed with employer input, graduates will be prepared to enter the workforce as wind energy technicians.
According to the Department of Energy, wind power is the fastest growing energy source in the world.
"Our Wind Energy Technology Program is arguably the best in the world and our labs are a critical piece of the student experience," said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. "The ever–growing area of wind energy requires tremendous knowledge and a commitment to learn proper, safe techniques, which this equipment will help provide."
