High School

A good foundation for wind energy project management work includes business, earth science, environmental science, mathematics, physics, English, speech, and computer science classes. Shop classes are also helpful for understanding how machines operate. Foreign language classes are useful for working with international companies and people from different countries.

Postsecondary Education

A bachelors degree is usually required for wind energy project manager jobs. Degrees vary in this field. Project managers may have a degree in environmental science, renewable energy, earth science, business, management, engineering, or information technology project management, among other related areas. Many project managers participate in an internship or other type of cooperative work study program while in school. 

Certification

Colleges and universities, professional associations (such as the Midwest Renewable Energy Association), and private organizations offer certificate programs in renewable energy.

Other Education or Training

Project managers continue their education throughout their careers. The American Wind Energy Association offers educational sessions at its annual conference that cover technical, scientific, and business issues. The Association of Energy Engineers, Interstate Renewable Energy Council, Midwest Renewable Energy Association, and the Project Management Institute also provide continuing education opportunities.

Certification or Licensing

Wind energy project managers enhance their skills, knowledge, and marketability by getting certified in various specializations. The Midwest Renewable Energy Association certifies renewable energy site assessors in wind technology (home-sized systems). The Association of Energy Engineers offers the Certified Renewable Energy Professional designation to candidates that meet work experience requirements and pass the certification examination. The Project Management Institute offers certification programs for project management professionals.

Wind energy project managers have four or more years of prior experience in managing projects. Strong organization and communication skills are essential. Project managers must be detail oriented, have knowledge of business and management principles, economic and accounting principles, and engineering science and technology. They must have strategic planning skills and the ability to coordinate people and resources. Knowledge of environmental and industry regulations and standards is also important. Strong technology skills are also needed for this job, including knowledge of enterprise resource planning software such as SAP, project management software such as Microsoft Project, and Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, and Web conferencing software.