Wind farms provide clean,
renewable energy across the country.
Developing and running them
relies on the skills of
wind energy project managers
and operations managers.
Wind energy project managers lead efforts
to develop potential wind energy businesses,
from conducting environmental studies,
and writing business proposals,
to applying for permits.
Their plans factor in detailed schedules
and anticipated costs.
Once they have a green light to build,
they may also manage project construction.
Project managers may also negotiate
a variety of agreements,
such as tax savings,
contracts to buy the wind power generated,
or land use.
They must know civil design,
engineering and construction codes
to ensure they meet government standards.
Wind energy operations managers
oversee existing wind field operations.
They may also need to negotiate
wind farm contracts
to ensure they continue to have buyers
for the power they generate.
They oversee equipment maintenance,
hire and supervise employees,
and ensure that safety policies are observed.
Wind energy operations managers
interact with a variety of stakeholders,
from land owners and developers
to utility reps and customers.
Wind energy project and operations managers
share similar education requirements:
most jobs require a bachelor’s degree,
although some require technical expertise
and a certificate along with work experience,
rather than a degree.