Interview with Offshore WIND Conference Speaker David Molenaar

Q&A with David Molenaar, Country Manager Siemens Wind Power, Siemens Gamesa

Speaker during Offshore WIND Conference, session: Human Capital

What are the immediate human capital challenges?

We need more speed to achieve a nationwide educational approach for offshore wind technicians, a specific wind service (on land and on sea) paragraph in the Working Hours Act. Furthermore, to solve the ‘who does provide the GWO training’ question – either the schools or the sector. Who is required to enable students to have a valuable on-site training and education during internships?

The growing offshore wind market requires a new breed of personnel – who are they according to you?

I do not agree that we need a new breed of personnel. I believe we have to combine several groups in a smart way: including: experienced offshore wind technicians, experts from other sectors / fields and specially educated students.

What challenges are you finding in recruiting for Siemens Gamesa?

Our challenges lie mostly in recruiting the right persons that match the not always known and changing requirements. Finding the right locations for on the job trainings and creating the right quality mindset and safety culture.

What do you hope people will take-away from your contribution during Offshore WIND Conference?

That working in offshore wind is challenging and fun, that the sector needs best-in-class and motivated employees and students, and also that we need your support to achieve a nationwide educational approach.

Reprinted from the Offshore WIND Magazine, edition 4, which is out now!