David Sorenson attending Mesalands Wind Program

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David Sorenson, from Roswell, NM, is majoring in Wind Energy Technology at Mesalands Community College.

TUCUMCARI, NM (10/25/2011)(readMedia)-- David Sorenson from Roswell, NM, is currently attending Mesalands Community College in Tucumcari, NM pursuing an Associate's Degree in Wind Energy Technology. Sorenson is completing his first semester of training at the North American Wind Research and Training Center at Mesalands.

The Wind Energy Technology program provides instruction in various aspects of safety, wind turbine technology, and turbine maintenance. As part of their training, wind energy students have the opportunity to climb the College's 1.5 megawatt wind turbine that stands at about 300 feet tall.

"This program allows David and other students to gain invaluable work experience in wind energy technology," John Hail, Jr., Wind Energy Technology Director/Instructor at Mesalands said. "And obtaining a degree in this growing industry will definitely help our students succeed in the future."

Mesalands was recently awarded $523,751 for the Wind Center of Excellence Grant. This grant recognizes the new Wind Center as a statewide educational leader in the training of qualified wind energy technicians. This grant will assist the College in offering a twelve week occupational certificate and two day and three day courses in Wind Energy Technology. Both programs will include hands-on training on the College's wind turbine. These programs were developed to meet the industry's need for highly-skilled employees in wind energy. Classes will begin in the spring.