RGU alumnus Scott shares how he is developing a career in renewable energy after graduating with a BEng in Mechanical Engineering.
With three new courses in Renewable Energy Engineering available at RGU, find out how we can help you kickstart your career in this ever-growing industry.
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I am a Technical Sales Manager with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy. Prior to this role, I joined the company on the three-year Renewable Graduate Apprentice programme in 2019. The programme involved three rotations in different organisational functions and was undertaken alongside an MSc in Offshore Wind Engineering with the University of Hull. I studied Mechanical Engineering (BEng) at RGU from 2015 to 2019 and graduated with a 1st degree.
In my current role, I enjoy the blend of delivering cutting edge renewable engineering technology, long term and large scale project management, as well as engaging customers directly on sales projects.
How do you feel RGU prepared you for your career?
RGU gave me hands-on practical engineering skills and experience that was applicable in the real world. Having an understanding of managing projects, planning of resources, scheduling works, and budgeting materials are all crucial to the work I do daily.
Engineering goes beyond the lecture hall and the textbook in the real world, so I was glad my degree took that approach.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in renewables?
I was exposed to renewables through the “Renewable Energy Systems” module and through a family friend who worked for Wind Energy Consultancy. It was through this friend that I got involved in some NGO work in Peru with WindAid, an organisation that builds, installs, and maintains locally manufactured small scale wind turbines for off-grid communities to reduce their reliance on diesel generators for lighting and other simple power supply needs.
I spent part of a summer with WindAid during my 3rd year at university and really developed a passion for renewables. It was during this time that I decided to focus on the renewable energy sector and related graduate schemes. I also decided to focus my dissertation on renewables, which further cemented my decision.
What are the benefits of renewable energy?
Crucially they are going to be part of our diversified energy supply for the future. We cannot continue to utilise fuel and energy sources at an increasing rate, which continues to exacerbate the effects of climate change. Electricity is essential for modern living, and if we do not change how we generate it, we will create a world which will not be habitable and liveable for those that come after us.
Offering a degree in Renewable Energy gives people the opportunity to specialise on a specific part of the industry sector, which is only going to keep growing in the future.
Any advice you would give to someone considering studying a degree in Renewable Engineering Energy?
Build a diverse skill set. Well rounded and competent engineers who are able to pick up new skills and grow over time are desirable and will put you in good stead.
Scott Donald Haldane
We have three new Renewable Energy Engineering courses available with different awards: a 4-year BEng (Hons), a 5-year MEng, and a 2-year part-time online BSc. All these courses will equip you with the necessary knowledge and transferable skills required by the global renewable energy industry. Find out more on the RGU website.
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