What did you want to do when you were 16?

Growing up in the 1960s on a mixed farm, I always had an interest in engineering, in agriculture and in energy matters. This led to an engineering qualification and a wonderful career in forestry.

I was impressed by the 1st law of Thermodynamics, that energy cannot be created or destroyed so it was quite a natural step for me to get involved in renewable energy projects following on from my forestry career.

What kind of qualifications do you need for your job?

The particular project that I am working on is just 10–15 km from my home so I know the general area and many of the local residents well.

I have been involved in sport, music and other voluntary work locally with Macroom Tidy Towns etc over the years. I also know all the local TDs and councillors and work closely with them to address any concerns.

I have a Degree in Agricultural Engineering from UCD. I started my career with Dublin Corporation, before taking up a role in forestry, even before Coillte was formed.

Over the years I have been involved in planting, in timber harvesting and in timber transport, managing workshops and taking part in projects, both national and across Europe.

What kind of career opportunities do you have?

I can work locally and use the skills I have developed throughout my career.

While my role deals with a major project that is currently in planning, there are opportunities for similar community liaison roles throughout the construction phase and also when the project is operational.

There are an increasing number of projects and roles developing every year. The CLO role is so important because we need to respect and work closely with the community. They are going to be our neighbours!

Best part of your working day?

It is satisfying helping people understand the issues and giving them the facts, instead of the rumours and the misinformation that can be circulating. My role now includes training for new recruits and working with local schools on aspects of wind energy.

The flexibility this role offers is a real bonus. There is no routine, every day is different, and I meet new people all the time.

Something that might surprise people about your role?

There is so much learning. The questions that arise on the doorstep are a learning experience. If I don’t know the answer to a question from someone it’s my job to go away and get the information that person needs so I am always learning new things.

The technology is always changing and improving so we need to keep up with this as well. We need to know about all aspects of the project because you never know what you could be asked. That’s everything from where the turbines will go to the effect on water or birds, to improving the roads to move in the equipment to people who want to know how the wind turbines work.