Tory Rheingans spends some days on the ground, others 300 feet in the air, and no two are ever exactly the same. As lead wind technician at Alliant Energy’s Whispering Willow Wind Farm North in Franklin County, Iowa, Tory thrives on solving problems, working with his hands – and taking in views few ever see.
“Wind technicians are electricians, mechanics and hydraulic mechanics,” said Tory. “You have to wear a lot of hats to be able to do this one role.”
Tory has worked in wind for 15 years. He started with Alliant Energy as an entry level technician nine years ago. Now as lead technician, he starts the day with a team meeting to assess any towers that are down and what problems they face. The team reviews the work ahead and discusses safety issues and protocols. Tory then assigns projects and splits the team into pairs to maintain and repair wind towers.
“I always say it takes a special person to do this work,” said Tory, “and that’s true because you have to be OK with heights and weather and being high up in swaying towers. But besides that, really anyone with a good attitude who wants to learn can become a wind technician.”
It takes time to learn various aspects of the work, but much of the training happens on the job. We ask that wind technicians come to Alliant Energy with two years of related experience. That means we’re looking for people with the basic skills for the job, but we help develop talent into expertise.
For those who can handle the heights and are eager to learn, there are many rewards. For one thing, the views are amazing.
“We’re always happy to climb on a foggy day,” said Tory. “The view from the top of the tower is incredible in fog. It’s like being above the clouds. With the sun shining above and the clouds below, its peaceful and a nice way to work.”
Wind technicians have an opportunity for a fulfilling, skilled career that gets them outdoors. They don’t spend their days in cubicles or behind desks, but going to locations outside to do hands-on work.
“Every time a turbine turns, it’s because a wind technician showed up, solved a problem and kept it running safely,” said Matthew Hansen, director of generation in Grinnell, Iowa. “It takes a unique skillset to do this work, and it’s their effort in the field that turns our renewable strategy into reliable power that’s affordable for our customers.”
Tory said he hopes to spend the rest of his career with Alliant Energy.
“The environment at our sites is positive,” he said. “We have a fun group that works well together and appreciates each other. Employees are treated well and it’s a good place to be.”
We have a variety of job openings across Iowa and Wisconsin. To apply, visit our careers page.