Interview with Hope Ross, Onshore Construction and Operations Project Manager

Working in renewable energy

How important is it today to work on renewable energy projects against a backdrop of growing demand for electricity?

For me, working on renewable energy projects is about being part of the solution to one of the biggest challenges facing society today. With electricity demand increasing and the need to decarbonise our energy system, the work we do has a clear and lasting impact.
I find it incredibly rewarding to manage projects that will provide clean, renewable energy for many years to come. Knowing that the decisions we make today can help improve energy security, support net-zero ambitions, and leave a positive legacy for future generations is what makes this work so important and motivating.

What attracted you to the world of renewable energy and, specifically, to your area of work?

Renewables is one of the most important growth sectors today, helping to meet increasing electricity demand while improving sustainability and energy security. Solar and wind construction appealed to me because I enjoyed the thought of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects where you can see a direct, physical, measurable outcome. Project management allows me to combine technical, commercial and leadership skills while playing a vital role in bringing new renewable generation assets into operation.

What aspect of your work would most surprise someone unfamiliar with this sector?

People are often surprised by the level of uncertainty we manage. Renewable energy projects are affected by many factors such as weather, grid connection obligations, environmental constraints, landowner agreements, planning consents and evolving regulations. Delivering a successful project requires constant adaptation to various moving parts while maintaining safety, quality, programme and budget commitments.

Characteristics and challenges of onshore wind power

What is special about working on onshore wind projects in the context of establishing a sustainable energy model?

What is particularly special about working on onshore wind projects is seeing the direct contribution they make to building a sustainable future. Every project helps increase the supply of clean electricity, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support progress towards net-zero targets.
As a project manager, it is rewarding to be involved in projects that deliver tangible environmental benefits while also creating economic opportunities for local communities. Onshore wind projects bring together a wide range of disciplines, from environmental specialists to engineers, planners, contractors, landowners and community stakeholders, all working towards a common purpose.
I find it inspiring that onshore wind is one of the most established and cost-effective renewable technologies, meaning the projects delivered today will have a significant and lasting impact on the UK's energy security and sustainability.

When someone sees a wind farm in operation, what part of the work behind the scenes do you think they’re usually unaware of?

Most people would be surprised by how much planning is required prior to a wind farm being constructed. By the time the turbines are erected, years of work have already gone into environmental assessments, planning applications, community consultation, grid connection arrangements and construction preparation. The finished wind farm is really the result of thousands of decisions, conversations and hours of work carried out behind the scenes. That is what makes it so satisfying when you finally see the turbines turning and generating clean energy.
What I find particularly rewarding is that while much of this work is invisible to the public, it is essential in delivering infrastructure that will generate clean, renewable energy for decades to come. Every turbine represents years of planning, teamwork and commitment to creating a more sustainable energy future.

What sort of profiles, knowledge or skills are key to bringing an onshore wind project to fruition?

Bringing an onshore wind project to fruition requires a diverse range of skills and disciplines working together throughout the project lifecycle. Successful projects rely on effective programme management, budgeting, procurement, contract management, risk mitigation and coordination across multiple contractors and stakeholders.
Strong stakeholder engagement is also critical as wind projects involve collaboration with landowners, local communities, planning authorities, regulatory bodies and network operators. The ability to build relationships, communicate clearly and balance competing priorities is often just as important as technical knowledge. Onshore wind developments are complex projects with many moving parts, and it is the ability of people from different backgrounds and expertise to work together towards a common goal that ultimately brings them to fruition.

Leadership and technical careers

If you could go back to the start of your career, what advice would you give yourself?

If I could go back to the start of my career, I'd tell myself to trust my abilities and have confidence in my own voice. Working in construction has taught me that effective leadership is not about knowing everything; it's about building strong relationships, being willing to learn and making decisions with confidence. I would also remind myself that challenges and setbacks are often the experiences that drive the greatest professional growth.

What do you think is needed to encourage more people to take an interest in technical careers?

I believe encouraging more people into technical careers starts with breaking down misconceptions. Technical careers are not just about technical expertise; they are about solving real-world problems, working collaboratively and making a meaningful difference.
I also think visibility matters. When people can see diverse role models succeeding in these careers, they are more likely to see themselves in similar roles. Throughout my career, I have seen the value of mentorship, outreach and sharing real-life experiences to help inspire the next generation to explore opportunities they may not have otherwise considered. A technical career provides great opportunities, financial stability and pathways within many exciting sectors; there really is something for everyone. It is a discipline that will continue to adapt and grow and always needs more diverse voices – yours could make a real difference.