Not all dream jobs are wrapped in the traditional package of degrees and corporate offices. For Jessica Jackson, a 37-year-old single mother, her career doesn’t just pay well—it’s a daily adventure in the skies. As a wind turbine technician, Jessica earns $75,000 a year in one of the most physically demanding and dangerous jobs in the world.
Wind energy, a booming industry in the United States, is expected to grow by nearly 100% in the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But for those maintaining these massive machines, the job isn’t for the faint-hearted. Jessica sums it up best: “It’s tough work, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I love what I do, so it doesn’t feel like a job most days.”
Her enthusiasm stems from more than just the paycheck. Working outdoors, staying active, and contributing to a cleaner environment all add meaning to her role. Jessica dreams of climbing even higher—literally and figuratively—aiming for a lead technician position that could push her annual salary to six figures.
Courage Over Credentials
Jessica’s journey into the wind energy sector wasn’t straightforward. For over a decade, she was a stay-at-home mom, dedicated to her family. But when life threw her a curveball—a separation from her partner—she found herself at a crossroads. “I didn’t have a degree, and my career options felt limited,” she admits. Undeterred, she enrolled in environmental science courses and completed her studies in 2022.
Her entry into the industry was partly serendipitous. Her ex-husband, also a wind technician, introduced her to the field. She landed her first job shortly after and hasn’t looked back. Many companies, like Vestas, her current employer, provide on-the-job training, making this career path accessible to individuals without formal degrees but with plenty of determination.
Jessica’s message is clear: bravery and a willingness to learn can open doors. She hopes to inspire more women to consider careers in wind energy, breaking into a field traditionally dominated by men.
A Day in the Life of a Wind Turbine Technician
Jessica’s workday is as varied as the weather. Her responsibilities include inspecting, maintaining, and repairing the towering turbines that dot the landscape. From troubleshooting electronic systems to fixing generators and pumps, no two days are the same.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Climbing to the nacelle—the turbine’s hub at the top of the tower—requires more than just physical stamina. It takes nerves of steel. At first, Jessica struggled with the daunting heights, but over time, she learned to trust her safety gear and embrace the challenge. “Now, I feel secure up there. It’s just part of the job,” she says.
A Job That Transforms Lives
Jessica’s story isn’t just about a career—it’s about transformation. From a stay-at-home mom wondering about her future to a high-earning professional defying gravity and expectations, her journey highlights the power of resilience and self-belief.
When asked if she’d choose a different path, her answer is immediate: “If I were doing anything else, I wouldn’t be this happy.” For those searching for a fulfilling career without the need for a traditional degree, Jessica’s advice is simple: “Be brave, take the leap, and see where it takes you.”
As the demand for renewable energy soars, the wind energy sector offers more than just jobs—it offers opportunities to grow, contribute, and find a sense of purpose. And for Jessica Jackson, every climb is a step closer to her dreams.