For our next blog in the ‘Our Route to Renewables’ series, we spoke to Calum Ferguson, Associate Asset Manager, about his journey into the renewables industry.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I had an interest in the environment and the natural world from an early age, mostly from watching David Attenborough’s documentaries, so I wanted to be a marine biologist for a long time.
Why was a career in renewable energy important for you?
I wanted to work in a field that I believed would have a positive impact on the world, so that I could come to work every day and contribute to that goal. I think that helping to build and operate renewable assets is one of best ways I can contribute positively to the world.
What did you study / how did you get into your current role?
I did my undergraduate degree in physics and then did a masters in Sustainable Energy. My first job in the industry was with a consultancy that mostly worked with offshore wind projects. University gave me a wide set of general skills and that first role gave me a good base of knowledge of the wind industry; from there I moved into my current position at Red Rock.
What does your day-to-day look like? What’s the best part of your role?
This role involves a wide variety of work. Generally, the job of the asset management team is ensuring that Red Rock’s assets are continuing to operate as they should and exploring ways in which we can improve their technical and commercial performance. Largely this involves analysis of performance, as well as regular engagement with all stakeholders of each asset.
The best part of my role is that no two days are the same. As a team we are constantly learning and exploring how we can optimise asset performance.
Figure 1: Calum alongside the wider technical team as the last blade is installed at Benbrack wind farm
What do you enjoy most about working at Red Rock?
I really enjoy the being part of the Red Rock team. I think there is a great atmosphere of collaboration between our people and across different departments and functions. This also allows for a wide range of work as you can end up helping out with lots of different types of work.
What’s been the most rewarding moment of your career so far?
The most rewarding moment of my career so far has been achieving energisation of Benbrack Wind Farm. Along with other members of the technical team, I spent a lot of time ensuring that the project had everything ready for that milestone.
What advice would you give to anyone considering a career in renewables?
Every asset is different, and every project is different. I think that can be challenging at times, but it also means that often no one has the ‘correct’ answer. Therefore, anyone can contribute as long as they are enthusiastic and willing to try their best to help solve whatever problem we are dealing with. The asset/project specific experience and knowledge will come with time, and there’s nothing wrong with asking questions.