Danny Bain

Danny, from Orkney in Scotland, graduated with an MSc in Marine Renewable Energy in 2014. He now works at Scotrenewables Tidal Power Ltd as HSE and Project Co-ordinator.

How did studying Marine Renewable Energy at Orkney help you in your current role?

The MSc in Marine Renewable Energy gave me good insight into the whole Marine Renewable Industry at the time and how it operated at all levels. It introduced me to developers and their concepts, as well as licensing and leasing authorities.  In addition, being part of the programme demonstrated that I had a genuine interest in the industry to potential employers and I found that the lecturers also helped me realise specific areas where I would have transferable skills from previous positions.

What is your current role and responsibilities?

Being part of such a small and specialised team means that there is scope for an incredible range of diversity in work tasks.  Officially though, I am the HSE and Project Co-ordinator for Scotrenewables Tidal Power Ltd. 

A large part of the last two years was spent over at Harland & Wolff in Belfast, constructing the SR2000 turbine. I manage Scotrenewables HSE Policies and Safety Systems, providing advice, support and assistance to maintain continuous safe working practice. I compile monthly reports to the CEO and quarterly reports to the Board of Directors that allow us to assess the companies risk profile and HSE performance, and to look forward and ensure we are adequately prepared for any complex operations we have planned. Luckily, my job is made much easier by the fantastic team we have working at Scotrenewables. 

What advice do you have for any prospective student thinking of joining the Orkney Campus?

Speak to the lecturers and staff at ICIT if you are unsure about how your existing skills could transfer into the industry, and how the postgraduate courses could assist. The advice and guidance they can give you is second to none and the support they offered throughout the course was fantastic.