Iowa Lakes Community College Offers Global Wind Organisation Training
Earn Wind Safety Certification Close to Home
The wind energy industry continues to grow across the Midwest, creating strong demand for trained technicians with specialized safety certifications. Iowa Lakes Community College is helping meet that demand by offering Global Wind Organisation (GWO) safety training, giving wind professionals the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials close to home.
As an approved GWO training provider, Iowa Lakes delivers instruction that meets international safety standards used across the global wind industry. Participants gain the hands-on skills and safety knowledge required to work confidently in turbine environments.
“This is a great opportunity for individuals looking to take the next step in their wind energy career or obtain a certification required by employers in the industry,” said Cody Prather, Energy Industry Programmer with Iowa Lakes Continuing & Professional Education.
With convenient training opportunities available in northwest Iowa, Iowa Lakes makes it easier for wind technicians and energy professionals to access high-quality certification training without traveling long distances.
GWO Basic Safety Training at Iowa Lakes
All GWO training is conducted at the Iowa Lakes Estherville Campus and includes Global Wind Organisation Basic Safety Training (BST). This comprehensive program focuses on essential safety competencies required for working in wind turbine environments.
Participants complete four core training modules designed to prepare them for real-world situations:
Fire Awareness
Learn how to prevent, identify, and respond to fire-related emergencies within wind turbine environments.
First Aid & CPR
Develop lifesaving skills needed to respond to medical emergencies and stabilize injured workers until additional help arrives.
Manual Handling
Learn proper lifting and material-handling techniques that reduce injury risk and promote safe work practices.
Working at Heights
Gain hands-on experience using fall protection equipment and safety procedures required for working safely in elevated turbine environments.
Together, these modules ensure participants develop the safety awareness and practical skills necessary to work in the wind energy sector. GWO certification is recognized worldwide and is often required by employers across the industry.
Why Choose Iowa Lakes for Wind Energy Training?
Iowa Lakes Community College offers accessible, high-quality wind energy safety training designed for both individuals and employers across the region.
Participants benefit from:
- Experienced instructors with industry knowledge
- Hands-on training environments that mirror real-world conditions
- Small class sizes that allow for individualized instruction
- Training aligned with international GWO safety standards
The result is a learning experience that builds both confidence and competence in critical safety procedures.
Former participants consistently highlight the value of the program. As one trainee shared:
“Cody Prather is a very knowledgeable instructor and provides a top-notch training experience.”
Wind Energy Careers Continue to Grow
Wind energy remains one of the fastest-growing sectors in the energy industry. Companies across the Midwest are actively seeking technicians who are trained in global safety standards and turbine operations.
Earning a GWO safety certification helps workers stand out in a competitive job market and demonstrates the ability to meet industry safety expectations.
Whether you are entering the wind industry or advancing your career, Iowa Lakes Continuing & Professional Education provides training that helps you move forward.
Upcoming GWO Training Dates
- March 23-26, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- May 18-20, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Employers: Schedule Training for Your Team
Many wind energy companies partner with Iowa Lakes to provide GWO safety training for their technicians. Customized training sessions may be available for employer groups.
Individuals interested in participating in upcoming training sessions can contact:
Cody Prather
Energy Industry Programmer
Iowa Lakes Continuing & Professional Education
712-362-7908
cprather@iowalakes.edu