Glenn Connell, High Voltage Senior Specialist at Walney Extension Offshore Wind Farm
Glenn joined the RAF as an Aircraft Electrician in 2001 on a nine-year contract with 9 Reserve. He now uses his acquired skills in his role as a High Voltage (HV) senior specialist at Ørsted.
“I always wanted to be a pilot but didn’t get the grades, so I joined as an engineer - I now have more than I needed! I did my basic training at RAF Holton and then moved to RAF Cosford where I spent 18 months doing my trade training. I then went to RAF Leeming and worked on the Tornado F3 aircraft. From there, I moved to RAF Coningsby where I worked on the new Eurofighter.”
“[While serving,] I also managed to complete my HNC/HND in electrical and electronic engineering and started my degree – I’ve since finished my degree working at Ørsted.
After nine years of military service, Glenn left the RAF so he could be at home with his son. However, the transition from a military role to civilian role wasn't too dissimilar:
“I moved from one engineering role to another with small teams. The major difference is turbines instead of fast jets! I think the RAF is the most relaxed out of all the armed forces, so the transition was easier for me than it might be for others.
“I’ve not found anyone at Ørsted who I couldn’t speak to and ask for advice if I needed anything. There is a family atmosphere here.”