WTEC 1115: Turbine Construction and Tower Systems
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Wind Turbine Technician
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course prepares students to work safely and effectively on turbine construction sites. Learners will interpret construction plans, explain foundation requirements, and operate climbing safety equipment. They will implement construction safety protocols, inspect access systems, and maintain tower safety gear. Training includes operating emergency descent systems, equipping students with the competencies needed for employment in turbine construction and maintenance roles.
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Interpret construction plans and procedures for wind turbine installations.
- Analyze foundation requirements for various turbine types and soil conditions.
- Evaluate tower assembly methods for different turbine designs.
- Demonstrate proper use of climbing safety equipment with full compliance with safety protocols.
- Operate emergency descent systems, successfully completing safe descents within industry-standard time requirements.
- Conduct comprehensive maintenance inspections of tower safety equipment.
- Assess access systems for compliance with safety regulations.
- Implement construction safety protocols demonstrating full compliance with relevant regulations and best practices.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Evaluation Plan
|
Type
|
Percentage
|
Assessment activity
|
|
Assignments
|
25
|
|
|
Quizzes/Tests
|
25
|
|
|
Lab Work
|
30
|
|
|
Final Exam
|
20
|
|
Course topics
- Site planning and preparation
- Foundation systems
- Tower construction methods
- Climbing systems
- Safety equipment
- Emergency systems
- Access systems
- Construction safety
- Equipment requirements
- Project planning
- Documentation procedures
- Quality control
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/.
- To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.