What we do in the wind power industry

Since 2004, the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles has been a leading player in wind power training across Quebec. With over 150 graduates of our Wind Turbine Maintenance Attestation of Collegial Studies (ACS), we play a key role in meeting the growing demand for skilled technicians who are essential to the energy transition. 

 

Our institution understands the challenges of today’s industry and innovates to train a workforce capable of meeting the demands of the job market. Thanks to industry-sourced equipment, a mobile laboratory and flexible learning programs (including distance learning), we offer optimal conditions for companies and learners alike. 

 

The Centre québécois de formation en maintenance d’éoliennes (CQFME)

Based on our Gaspé campus, the Centre québécois de formation en maintenance d’éoliennes (CQFME) features some twenty learning stations, three turbines and a gearbox. The main wooden structure is LEED-certified (sustainable construction) and uses a geothermal heating system. 

 

The CQFME offers programs that integrate the latest technologies and industry standards, such as: 

 

acknowledgement of prior learning and competencies (RAC) in wind turbine maintenance (in French), a personalized process that enables experienced workers to formalize their skills. 

 

  • The Wind Turbine Maintenance ACS (in French), a 960-hour program that includes a 6-week internship recognized by the ministère de l’Éducation. 
  • Tailored training in the form of custom semesters to meet specific company needs, with a focus on topics such as electricity, mechanical shaft alignment and hydraulics. 
  • Training designed specifically for First Nations peoples, taking into account their unique realities and needs. 
  • The recognition of prior learning and competencies (RAC) in wind turbine maintenance (in French), an individualized process that enables experienced workers to formalize their skills. 

Our partnership with Nergica

Specializing in renewable energies, Nergica is a college center for the transfer of technology (CCTT) affiliated with the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles. Through applied research, innovation and technology transfer projects, Nergica is a driving force behind the wind and solar energy industry. Discover its services and expertise at nergica.com. 

The wind power industry in Québec

In 2023, Quebec had over 4200 MW of installed capacity, with ambitious expansion plans targeting a further 10,000 MW over the next decade. These developments are creating a strong demand for multi-skilled technicians specializing in electricity, mechanics, hydraulics and safety who hold certifications such as those from the Global Wind Organization (GWO). The Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles is proud to train skilled resources who are helping to shape the future of the wind power industry in Quebec. 

Introducing the Wind Turbine Maintenance ACS in Senegal

Thanks to the Programme Québec-Francophonie en formation technique, and with the support of the Ministère des Relations internationales et de la Francophonie in collaboration with the Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur and the Fédération des cégeps, we are working with the Lycée Seydina Limamou Laye (LSLL) to launch the Wind Turbine Maintenance ACS in Dakar, Senegal, by 2027. 

Read the press release (in French)