Could ex-forces personnel be a key part of the clean energy workforce?
Aurora Energy Services is addressing the renewables skills gap by training military service leavers for careers in wind energy.
Delivered at its Inverness training centre, the “Military to Wind” programme equips participants with industry-ready skills for onshore and offshore projects, helping accelerate the deployment of clean energy infrastructure.
By retraining experienced engineers from the armed forces, the initiative supports workforce sustainability while strengthening the capacity needed to expand wind power and reduce emissions.
Andy Elrod said: “The qualities service leavers bring – discipline, attention to detail, safety awareness, technical competence and the ability to perform in demanding environments – are exactly what the wind industry needs.
“Applicants completing the course will be site-ready so they can go out and be gainfully employed in roles including pre-assembly construction and operations and maintenance.”
Participants gain recognised certifications, including Global Wind Organisation training and safety qualifications, ensuring they can contribute immediately to renewable energy projects.
One of the ex military undertaking the course Declan Paterson said: “The quality of the training shone through during the course. There was not a single lesson that was poor and the fact that you gain five or six qualifications was an important factor.
“I’ve had my fair share of nights in the desert and now I am looking forward to getting started in my new career.”
The programme, supported by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board and the Ministry of Defence, demonstrates how workforce transition can underpin sustainable growth.
By linking skills development with clean energy expansion, Aurora is helping build the workforce needed to deliver a resilient, low-carbon future.
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