Jack Day

How did serving in the military help prepare you for a job in the clean energy industry?

My military career field was highly technical in the aspect I was trained & regularly worked with electricity, electronics, mechanics, hydraulics & working in environments of high risk/stress safely, plus shore tour opportunities in recruiting & instructing for the Navy established skill sets that easily transitioned to clean energy. Although, those particular skill sets are important I feel the character traits or core values that are instilled in every service member, regardless of service length, are of most value to our work in clean energy. Characteristics, such as Integrity, Accountability & Dependability, these are pillars of a successful employee.  The Navy also prepared me to work with a large swath of diverse cultures & people of differing backgrounds, again, and not to be taken for granted the importance of establishing interpersonal relationships, rapport & camaraderie. All of the above prepared me to be a successful Technician, Lead Technician, Site Manager & Senior Wind Instructor. 

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What advice do you have for veterans exploring a job in the clean power industry?  

First, I would suggest they not count themselves out based on the lack of technical skills. You are bringing other skill sets that will set you apart from the normal population. Don’t under estimate those.  Second, if lacking in technical skills, search for and attend a certificate program to gain a basic skill set. Third, I would tell them the career field is expanding and the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) has & continues to forecast clean energy, specifically, wind & solar technicians are the in the top three fastest growing industries with medical being the other. 

Last, the work is great, the opportunity for advancement is wide open, you’ll find the same sense of purpose & camaraderie you’ve experienced in the service with one exception…greater income potential!

What advice do you have for companies looking to hire veterans?  

Veterans are taught from day one in service that safety does not have to be a compromise to achieve mission success.

They are also proven performers under high risk, high stress environments.  

Additionally, they know the meaning of sacrifice, team work, professionalism, trustworthiness & leadership.

Last, recognize a veteran’s experience through your offer of pay.  These men & women possess character traits you rarely find coming from the everyday population. They are looking for a sense of purpose & are in most cases onboarding and ready to lead & promote.

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