From discovering her passion for wind energy at 14 to competing for a place in Squad UK, Madeleine has always known where she wanted to go. Now in her third year as a Wind Turbine Technician Apprentice at RWE Offshore Wind, she reflects on her journey, the skills she’s gained, and the opportunities that have shaped her path so far.

Why did you choose to do your apprenticeship at RWE Offshore?

I knew what I wanted to do from age 14, university as an option was less appealing as I saw it as delaying me getting into the industry that I knew I wanted to do, so when I was sent this apprenticeship by someone who knew I was interested, I leapt at the chance to get stuck in and hands on! RWE had many benefits over other companies because of the apprenticeship structure and my sites shift rotation, as someone who lives in Leicestershire – in a town very close to the furthest place in the UK from the sea, the shift pattern is a good structure for me too.

How often can you go home?

During the first two years you can go home at the weekends and during term holidays, and when on site you either work 1 week on 1 week off shifts, or 2 weeks on 2 weeks off that allows you to be anywhere in the world on your off shift! 

Did you bring something from home that’s important to you?

When I first went to Chester for the college side I brought my hockey kit and sewing machine, there is a great hockey team in Chester and an even better fabric shop, that allowed me to explore my hobbies in my down time!

What do you like most about the apprenticeship so far?

The amazing opportunities that it has allowed me to do. I was able to live in Chester for 2 years at the start of the course, take part in the worldskills renewable energy competition, and been able to see many aspects of the company, in the generation and testing side. The apprenticeship has given me a good foundation knowledge of not only how to carry out maintenance but also many aspects within the industry, like end of life extension, decommissioning and initial planning. I have been able to get very familiar with the UK train system from this apprenticeship and visiting different areas, which has been invaluable for me!

What advice would you give to applicants?

Seize every opportunity given to you, show that you are proactive and want to learn. Eagerness goes along way.