As Japan seeks to expand wind power generation both offshore and onshore, the demand for skilled and certified workers capable of operating and maintaining those facilities is growing rapidly. To meet this demand, training centers are opening that offer professional safety and technical courses for engineers and other skilled workers.

Against the backdrop of increasing demand for wind power, the Global Wind Energy Council estimates that worldwide in the next five years more than 574,000 technicians will have to be hired, with almost 43% as new talent to the industry. 

In Japan, young engineers see the wind power sector as an attractive career opportunity, but students in technical programs are concerned that the current university curricula hinder acquiring skills necessary for employment at wind farms. Practical training has yet to become a fixture of university programs.

In a first, last week the Japan Wind Power Association (JWPA), the industry’s most influential organization, published guidelines aimed at standardizing training for technicians. The JWPA expects this will clarify requirements for seeking talent, especially helping to attract young professionals from other industries.

In the meantime, the private sector is picking up the slack.