”

I have been with Invenergy for nine months as a wind turbine technician. My main responsibilities include performing routine maintenances, troubleshooting mechanical and electrical faults, and repairing or replacing components”

I was in the Navy from July 1983 to May 1992 and was in the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion Program. I qualified as Electrical Operator, Shutdown Reactor Operator and Engineering Watch Supervisor. I served on the USS Mississippi, a nuclear-powered cruiser stationed in Norfolk, VA, and served as an instructor at the West Milton, NY sight, a Nuclear Power Training Unit.”

I started at Hardee Power Station on the same day I got out of the Navy.”

AP: I was in the Army from July 2012 to January 2019 and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. I held two military occupational specialties while in service—first as a 91B (Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic) working on various military tactical vehicles for two and a half years, and then as a 15R (Attack Helicopter Repairer), working, planning, and supervising maintenance on AH-64D/E Apaches for four years.”

I did two tours in South Korea and one tour in Europe which consisted of serving in Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, and Germany. When back stateside, I was stationed at Fort Hood, TX.”

”

I was fascinated with how much growth and opportunity there is in the sustainable energy industry. I transitioned into the industry by attending a career skills program where various employers and schools came down to Fort Hood to discuss education and employment opportunities. I was fortunate enough to be accepted into a Renewable Energy and Communications Tower Tech Program offered by . The vocational training provided me with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of wind energy. The day I completed my military service, Invenergy hired me as a wind turbine technician at their Wake Wind Energy Center.”

”

Coming from most recently working on helicopters, I was taught to be very thorough in all tasks and inspections. Being safety-minded and meticulous was an important aspect of the job because pilots’ lives were on the line if any mistakes were made on maintenances or in reassembly. Although turbines work differently, I still treat my tasks with precision, following every step with no shortcuts.”

Having been in four different units during service, I learned how to work with personnel from all backgrounds which I believe has also made me a strong and collaborative team player.”

”

Veterans are molded to be reliable, self-managed, and committed to producing high-quality results.”

”

Veterans Day to me is a day where we as a nation recognize, honor, and give thanks to those who have served our country. Freedom is not always free, and all veterans were willing to pay the ultimate price when they signed the dotted line.”