My role
I work as an Aerodynamic engineer in Vestas Global Research. Mostly I work with large experimental projects, involving advanced measurements on full scale wind turbines. I’m typically taking care of the instrumentation, since this is something I have a great deal of experience with. This is extremely interesting, since it involves a lot of disciplines, such as Aerodynamics, Aeroelasticity, Lightning protection, Controls and of course advanced measurement technology involving basic and optical measurements. I’m also involved in a few projects, where PhD students are conduction laboratory experiments on various aspects of the aerodynamics.
All these projects have one ultimate goal: To increase our understanding of the wind turbines and the Aerodynamics which drive them.
My career path
After finishing my PhD in Naval Hydrodynamics at the Technical University of Denmark, I worked 3 years for Cowi Consulting Engineers as a CFD specialist, doing everything from district heating planning in Mongolia to risk analysis on offshore drilling rigs.
In 2000, I was asked to join Dantec Dynamics – a Danish manufacturer of advanced laser based fluid measurement equipment. I worked for 3 years as an export manager, handling sales through distributors in Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. The following 5 years I worked in the same company as application specialist in PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry).
In 2008, I became aware that Vestas was looking for an Aerodynamic Specialist for the new research office in Roskilde. I felt that it was time for a career change and applied for the job. In my first year at Vestas I helped starting up the Global University Programme, collaborating with Vestas specialists and experts from Universities on which research projects should be carried out, and how they should be executed, in order to boost our industry.
My network
In 1998, I participated in the constituting general assembly of DANSIS (The Danish Society for Industrial Fluid Dynamics) and became a member of the board. With the exception of a 3 years period, I’ve been in the board ever since. DANSIS is a networking organization within the field of fluid mechanics and aim to strengthen the relationship between academic and industrial parties in the field. A side effect of my work for DANSIS was the job offer at Dantec Dynamics.
Working for Dantec Dynamics has increased my network globally, particularly in fluid dynamic research institutions (universities and national laboratories) all over the world. A network I benefit from now, while working in Vestas.
My Vestas
My job in Vestas is probably the most interesting job I’ve ever had. I touch on a large amount of very interesting disciplines, and I learn something new every day – something which means a lot to me. Also I enjoy having colleagues from all over the world.
My job motivation is even greater because I know I’m working in the industry of the future. It gives me great satisfaction to know that what I do means a difference, not just to me, but to the entire world. Sometimes when I’m asked what I do at dinner parties I answer: “I help fighting global warming”.
My life
I live in Copenhagen with my wife and daughter. My primary interests (outside of my job) are almost anything involving the large wild nature. I love hiking and camping out, particularly in remote mountainous regions, but a hike through the Lake District with the occasional stop at a local pup doesn’t put me off either. Whenever I get the chance I like to go sailing in sail boats.
