An Interview with Mike Milledge, Senior Director of Empire Energy Offshore
The wind energy industry is growing rapidly, both onshore and offshore, driving the demand for skilled professionals who keep turbines running efficiently and reliably. At Empire Energy, technicians are the lifeblood of operations, combining expertise, innovation, and resilience to power the transition to renewable energy. We caught up with Mike Milledge, Senior Director of Empire Energy Offshore, to hear about the critical role technicians play, the challenges they tackle, and the bright future of wind energy.
Q: Mike, what makes technicians the backbone of Empire Energy?
"Whether it’s onshore or offshore, our technicians are absolutely the heart of what we do. They’re the ones out there inspecting, repairing, and maintaining turbines, often in tough conditions. Offshore, that might mean dealing with high winds and rough seas; onshore, it’s climbing up to the turbines in all kinds of weather. Their work ensures that turbines generate clean, reliable energy every day. I have always been impressed with their ability to blend technical skills with physical endurance. They’re problem-solvers, safety champions, and innovators all rolled into one."
Q: How does the work of a technician differ between onshore and offshore wind?
"There are some key differences. Onshore, technicians often have easier access to turbines—you're driving to a site instead of taking a boat or helicopter. Offshore, the environment is much more unpredictable. You’re dealing with saltwater, harsher weather, and logistical challenges. That said, the core skills are the same. Whether you’re repairing a blade or troubleshooting a gearbox, attention to detail and teamwork are crucial. Offshore technicians also have to be incredibly adaptable, given the added complexity of working at sea. Both roles are demanding, but equally rewarding."
Q: What kind of person thrives as a wind technician?
"We look for people who love solving problems and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. The sector also needs people who can be Wind Technician leaders. You need to be comfortable working at height and, if you're offshore, being away from home for long periods of time. It’s also a job for team players. Out there—whether it's on a remote hillside or in the middle of the ocean—you rely on your teammates. It’s a close-knit community, and that camaraderie is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. If you’re passionate about renewable energy and want to make a tangible impact, this career could be for you.
Q: How do you lead technical teams to ensure they meet and exceed client expectations?"Leading technical teams is all about balancing expertise with clear direction. We focus on creating an environment where every team member understands their role, has the tools to excel, and feels empowered to bring their skills and ideas to the table. With tech teams, it’s not just about delivering results—it’s about fostering innovation and problem-solving.
I encourage open communication so we can anticipate client needs and quickly adapt when challenges arise. Regular check-ins help me stay connected with the team and ensure everyone is aligned with the project goals. At the same time, I ensure that our project managers remain client-focused by reminding the team of the larger impact of their efforts—whether it’s increasing turbine efficiency, improving reliability, or contributing to clean energy goals.
Ultimately, great leadership means knowing when to guide, when to listen, and when to let your team take the lead. That’s how we consistently deliver for our clients and push the boundaries of what’s possible."
Q: How is technology changing the way technicians work?
"Technology is transforming how we approach both onshore and offshore operations. Using drones for blade inspections, advanced torque tools, and real-time monitoring systems can let technicians identify potential issues before they become major problems. Offshore, we’re seeing the integration of robotics and AI to improve safety and efficiency. But here’s the thing—while technology makes the work more efficient, it doesn’t replace the technicians. You still need skilled professionals to interpret the data and carry out the hands-on work. It’s an exciting time to be in this field, with so many new tools at our disposal."
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a wind technician?
"Go for it! Whether you’re working onshore or offshore, it’s an incredibly rewarding career. Get your certifications—like GWO training—and build up your technical skills. Don’t be afraid to start small; even entry-level roles provide a solid foundation. And always stay curious—this industry evolves quickly, and there’s so much to learn. Plus, there’s no better feeling than standing on top of a turbine, knowing your work is helping drive the shift to renewable energy. It’s not just a job; it’s a way to make a real difference."
Q: What’s the future of wind energy, and how do technicians fit into that vision?
"The future of wind energy is immense, with advancements in turbine efficiency, floating wind farms revolutionizing energy potential in deeper waters, and hybrid energy solutions expanding possibilities. Both onshore and offshore wind will play critical roles in achieving global energy transition goals.
At Empire Energy Partners, we’re proud to play an active role in advancing offshore wind energy. Through the FLOWIN Prize initiative, we’re exploring innovative solutions to supply chain challenges and collaborating with leading industry partners like Sarens, a global expert in heavy lifting and transport, and The Herrick Corporation, a leader in steel manufacturing and fabrication. Our work includes developing port layouts, O&M offices, and warehouses that integrate cutting-edge technology and sustainability to support floating wind projects.
The FLOWIN Prize, led by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the U.S. Department of Energy, inspires innovations to accelerate the deployment of 15 GW of floating offshore wind capacity by 2035, reduce costs, and strengthen local supply chains. As part of this mission, we’re actively working to integrate U.S.-based expertise and infrastructure to support this growing sector.
Of course, none of this would be possible without skilled technicians. The industry’s growth demands highly trained individuals who can maintain and optimize these systems. I’m proud to work with some of the best in the business. Together, we’re shaping the future of energy—one turbine, one collaboration, and one innovation at a time."
Wind power doesn’t happen without skilled technicians, and at Empire Energy, we’re proud to supply the best in the business. From North America to UK and Europe, Australia, and the APAC region, our highly trained experts are ready to tackle the toughest challenges in wind energy. Whether it’s maintaining turbines in remote onshore locations or ensuring peak performance in demanding offshore environments, our technicians combine expertise, innovation, and resilience to keep clean energy flowing.
