As it turns out, I’m not wind turbine material. Last Tuesday, myself and three other Windpower Engineering ladies climbed a 280 ft. wind turbine in Sweetwater, Texas. My initial thought was it was similar to rock climbing but boy was I wrong.
Inside the turbine tower. From L to R: Heather Centorbi, Content Associate; Jessica East, Integrated Media Manager; Nic Sharpley, Associate Editor; and, Courtney Seel, Regional Sales Manager.
Upon arrival at the climb location, my nerves kicked in at the sight of this massive wind turbine. Not to mention, the fact that it was cold and windy outside. After we had our safety briefing inside the turbine, we began to climb.
Trying not to look down, I climbed the first 30 ft. and wanted to quit. There were mixed emotions throughout the group, but we continued on. The next 70 ft. were not as friendly. My arms became fatigued and I wanted to quit. Actually, I my exact words were, “I AM DONE!” But the nice gentlemen at the Texas State Technical College offered to let me ride in the man-lift. So I rode up 100 ft. and then climbed the last 40 ft. which took us to the nacelle.
What a dirty place the nacelle is! It was neat to see all the components and how big a gearbox actually is. We each took turns climbing on top of the turbine taking pics and experiencing a day in the life of a technician. It is a dangerous job and I value what they do even more.
Finally reached the top!
This experience was one that I will never forget.
Check out the Windpower Engineering Facebook page for more photos of the climb!
Filed Under: News, Training, Uncategorized
