By Vicky Roberts, Director of Business Development
The offshore wind industry is at a tipping point, powering the global transition to renewable energy. But behind every towering turbine is a critical need: skilled technicians who ensure these massive structures operate efficiently, safely, and sustainably. By 2028, the demand for offshore wind technicians is projected to soar by 40%, with over 76,000 specialists required worldwide.
At Empire Energy Offshore, we’re proud to lead the charge in addressing this growing challenge. Our elite team of technicians, backed by decades of experience, offers the expertise, innovation, and dedication needed to optimise offshore wind projects across North America, the UK, mainland Europe and beyond.
The Offshore Wind Industry’s Growing Challenge
As global renewable energy targets push the expansion of offshore wind, the industry faces a critical bottleneck: the shortage of readily available, trained, and certified technicians. Developers, operators, and supply chains are grappling with the complexities of managing large-scale projects while addressing workforce gaps that threaten timelines, safety, and long-term reliability.
Key Challenges Facing the Sector:
Increased Demand for Skilled Technicians: The rapid growth of offshore wind installations has outpaced the availability of qualified personnel, leaving many projects struggling to meet operational milestones.
Global Competition for Talent: With over 532,000 skilled wind technicians needed globally by 2028, countries are vying for a limited pool of experienced workers.
Complex Certification Requirements: Meeting stringent safety and compliance standards—such as GWO, HUET, and high-voltage training—requires technicians with highly specialised skill sets, further limiting the talent pool.
Challenging Offshore Environments: The harsh conditions of offshore wind farms demand technicians who are not only certified but also experienced in working safely and efficiently in remote, high-pressure settings.
Project Delays and Rising Costs: Workforce shortages contribute to delayed installations and maintenance, increasing project costs and reducing efficiency at a time when the industry is under pressure to scale rapidly.
Skills Transition Across Industries: While technicians from adjacent sectors like oil and gas are transitioning to offshore wind, gaps in training and certification often delay their readiness for immediate deployment.
These challenges underscore the importance of developing a reliable, scalable workforce capable of supporting the industry's ambitious growth.
Empire Energy Offshore has made it our mission to bridge this gap, providing the expertise and resources operators and developers need to thrive in this rapidly evolving market.
“At Empire Energy Offshore, we understand that the success of offshore wind projects depends not only on innovation but on the people who make it happen. Our technicians combine technical expertise and professionalism with a commitment to safety, ensuring every project exceeds expectations.”
– Mike Milledge, Senior Director of Offshore Wind
What Makes Empire Energy Offshore the Partner of Choice?
1. Breadth of Experience
Our team has 30+ years of combined experience spanning renewables, oil and gas, nuclear, and civil infrastructure. With over 15 years dedicated to offshore wind in the US, UK and Europe.
Our offshore wind capabilities include:
Pre-commissioning and commissioning of fixed-bottom and floating WTGs
Heavy lifting and turbine integration
Blade maintenance and emergency repairs
O&M support and inspections
Quayside cable maintenance and repairs
2. Certified to the Highest Standards
Our technicians meet global benchmarks for safety and compliance, holding certifications such as:
GWO Basic Safety Training (BST): Covering fire awareness, working at heights, sea survival, and more.
HUET Certification: Preparing technicians for emergency helicopter escapes.
Rope Access (IRATA/SPRAT): For safe and efficient operations at height.
High Voltage (HV) Training: Ensuring expertise in managing critical electrical systems.
Marine Safety & Sea Survival: Raft deployment, survival swimming, and safe transfers.
Wind Turbine Certified: Team certified from leading turbine manufacturers
E&M Proficiency: From Electrical Engineering degrees to technical diplomas, and more.
3. Global Reach with Local Expertise
Operating globally, we offer a deep understanding of regional regulations, environmental challenges, and logistical complexities. Whether it’s navigating U.S. security requirements or adapting to European offshore regulations, our tailored solutions ensure seamless operations.
4. Safety Excellence and Reliability
Safety isn’t just a priority for us—it’s a way of life. At Empire Energy Offshore, we focus on providing dependable solutions with zero compromise on safety. Our technicians undergo rigorous training to operate in extreme offshore environments, ensuring:
Flawless execution in high-pressure scenarios
Unwavering adherence to safety protocols
Efficient, reliable service that minimises downtime and maximises performance
This commitment to safety and operational excellence allows us to deliver results you can trust.
Why the Skills Gap Matters
The rapid growth of offshore wind is outpacing the availability of qualified technicians. By 2028, over 212,000 new workers will need to enter the global wind workforce to meet demand. Without skilled personnel, project delays and safety risks become inevitable.
Empire Energy Offshore is addressing this challenge by:
Establishing partnerships with training organisations: to increase access to certifications like GWO, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified technicians.
Promoting global safety standards through collaboration with organisations like GWO
Deploying highly skilled technicians wherever they’re needed most, ensuring projects stay on track
Ensuring cross-industry expertise, enabling seamless transitions for technicians with experience in oil, gas, and other energy sectors into offshore wind roles.
Your Trusted Partner in Offshore Wind
Empire Energy Offshore is more than a service provider; we’re a partner committed to your success. From maximising operational uptime to meeting the highest safety and compliance standards, we bring unparalleled expertise to every project.
Don’t let the skills gap hold your project back. Partner with Empire Energy Offshore to power the renewable energy revolution.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your offshore wind project and drive your success.
"The demand for skilled offshore wind technicians is outpacing supply at a critical moment for the global energy transition. This shortage presents significant challenges for developers and operators striving to deliver projects on time, maintain safety standards, and optimise long-term performance. "
"Meeting this demand requires not only scaling up training but also deploying experienced teams capable of adapting to the complexities of offshore operations. Empire Energy Offshore is uniquely positioned to provide this support, offering a global network of certified technicians who bring the expertise and reliability needed to drive success across regions."
– Vicky Roberts, Director of Business Development