At GEV Wind Power, we are proud of our relationship with Armed Forces ex-personnel and look to actively employ and work alongside talented individuals who pick up the many transferrable skills during their career paths within the different Armed Force Services.
From in-field technicians to back-office specialists, ex-service individuals continue to bring valuable expertise and experience to departments across our global team at GEV Wind Power and the wider renewable energy industry as a whole.
Following the celebration of Armed Forces Day 2025, we are connecting with GEV Senior Account Manager, Mark Keen, to learn about his own career transition from the Royal Air Force to the wind industry. Keep reading for further insights into Mark’s journey, from his role as a travelling technician, to becoming a core member of GEV’s senior leadership and business development team.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background experience and your role in the armed forces?
I spent 13 years serving in the Royal Air Force, joining on my 19th birthday and leaving on my 32nd. I began my career as an Aerial Erector (Rigger), a role focused on installing communication systems across the globe. It was a job I thoroughly enjoyed and one that sparked my lifelong passion for travel. During my time in the RAF, I was fortunate enough to have some fantastic postings. I spent 3 years at RAF St Mawgan in Newquay, where I made the most of the fishing and the Cornish summers. My favourite posting, however, was at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. I spent four years there, and it became a special chapter in my life, not only for the incredible setting but because it’s where my wife and I welcomed our first child.
What inspired your transition into the wind energy sector?
I saw wind energy as a new, exciting, and rapidly growing industry, one that aligned with my technical background and love for working outdoors in challenging environments. I was looking for a career that offered a similar sense of purpose, variety, and adventure as I had experienced in the RAF. The transition into wind felt like a natural fit and it gave me the chance to apply the skills I’d developed in the military while contributing to something forward-thinking and sustainable.
What was your first role in the wind industry and how did your background experience help or challenge you in adjusting to your new role in renewables?
My first role in the wind industry was as a travelling blade technician. Thanks to my background in the RAF, I already had the mindset, discipline, and practical experience needed to transition smoothly into the sector. The remote locations, working in small, tight-knit teams, and being away from home and family were all very familiar to me, it felt like a natural continuation of the environment I’d been used to. The move from military to wind was seamless, and I quickly found that many of the skills and routines I’d developed in the RAF translated directly into the demands of the job.
How has GEV supported your transition into the wind industry?
GEV played a key role in supporting my transition into the wind industry. From the outset, they recognised the transferable skills I brought from my time in the RAF and helped bridge any gaps in industry-specific knowledge through structured training and on-the-job support. The team culture at GEV, built around safety, professionalism, and teamwork, mirrored many of the values I was used to in the military, which made settling in much easier. They provided me with opportunities to grow, take on responsibility, and continue developing both technically and professionally. I’ve felt valued and supported throughout my time with the company.
What advice would you give to someone in the armed forces who is considering a career in renewable energy?
My advice to anyone in the armed forces considering a career in renewable energy is simple – go for it. The skills you’ve developed, discipline, resilience, adaptability, working in remote or high-pressure environments, are all highly valued in this industry. Roles in wind often mirror the structure and challenges of military life, especially in areas like health and safety, teamwork, and working at height or in remote locations. Don’t be put off by a lack of direct industry experience. Companies like GEV recognise the value of a military background and there are training opportunities to help you make the transition. If you’re looking for a role that keeps you challenged, outdoors, and contributing to something with long-term global impact, renewable energy is a great path to take.
What is your current role and what you do you enjoy most about working at GEV Wind Power?
My current role is Senior Account Manager at GEV Wind Power, where I’m responsible for client relations and business development. What I enjoy most about working at GEV is the flexibility and the opportunity to travel. The role allows me to build meaningful relationships with clients while continuing to explore new places and challenges, something that really aligns with my background and passion for working in dynamic environments and if I can fish at these locations then even better!
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As the wind industry continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled workers. At GEV Wind Power we believe that we all have a shared responsibility to support the global efforts in attracting new talent into the industry, particularly those with direct transferable skills from areas such as the military.
Visit our careers page find out how you can kickstart a career within the wind industry and learn more about GEV’s pledge to The Armed Forces Covenant as we continue to support those who serve.
Interested in joining our team? Take a look at our current vacancies: https://gevgroupltd.recruitee.com/
