My role:
Hi there! My name is Rolf-Erik and I am a R&D Graduate from team 2007. I am now in my third module of the Graduate Programme and work with Full Rotor Aerodynamics in Singapore. The project is aimed at improving the nacelle anemometry of wind turbines as well as obtaining greater knowledge of the rotor wake through CFD (computational fluid dynamics) using an actuator lines model. It’s great to be part of such an exciting project but the downside is that it takes a bit of time to explain to my friends what it actually is I do!
My career path:
Being on a specialist career path, all my three rotations have been within Technology R&D. During the graduate programme my idea has been to see the whole of Vestas’ technology process from blue sky ideas in global research, to working with proven principles in engineering and last but not least the final product in operations. The only difference is that I did it the other way around, which is a better way of getting a good feeling for the actual turbines before starting on research projects.
In my first module in Aarhus, Denmark I was working with Turbine Power Performance, which ensures that Vestas’ turbines work properly in the field and verifies that new designs and modifications function as intended. My main project was to create new software to process the collected data and reach key deliverables more efficiently as well as to speed up and improve the overall process.
During my second module I worked with Aerodynamics on Isle of Wight, UK to evaluate the effect of adding gurney flaps to the base of wind turbine blades. A gurney flap is a rectangular block that is attached to trailing edge of the pressure side of the blade. This modification changes the airflow around the blades, increasing the lift force but unfortunately also increasing the drag force. The effects of the gurney flap are evaluated using CFD and the results are later verified by comparing them to the results from wind tunnel testing.
My Vestas:
Vestas wind turbines will play a key role in solving the world’s energy problems and as Graduates, we are lucky enough to be part of that process, by being offered the chance to quickly be immersed in projects that require problem solving skills and creativity. My own projects have gone well and challenged me, as I have had to come up with solutions myself, get in touch with lots of people to get the right data and manage projects without knowing much in advance about the specific field. Fortunately, I get strong support and advice from my mentor, who follows me throughout the two-year programme. Also, I get the opportunity to learn from three different managers.
My network:
In the Graduate Programme, there are lots of opportunities to see and experience the world and try different positions. This leads to great career opportunities in Vestas. Another factor that is personally very important for me is the feeling of playing for the right team. I also hear from my colleagues that it feels really good to work with people who share the same beliefs.
My life:
The cool thing about my international career in Vestas is that seeing new places fulfills a personal goal of mine to see the world. Apart from traveling, my hobbies outside work are mainly hanging out with friends, playing poker and badminton.
