Solar Technician Emily Brun started her career as a wind technician when she was just 21 years old. She had been working in what she describes as a “dead-end job,” and her brother-in-law, who worked on wind turbines, encouraged her to explore the renewable energy field.
Emily briefly trained as a wind technician in North Dakota before taking an internship back home in Michigan. After eight years as a wind technician, Emily decided she wanted to learn something new and grow in her career – so she applied for her current job as a solar technician at DTE.
On the switch from wind technician to solar technician, Emily says, “For both jobs, it’s not just about what you’re bringing to the role; it’s about how much you’re willing to learn. Working outdoors is what drew me to the wind technician job, but I actually spend more time outside as a solar technician – I walk through fields of wildflowers in the summer!”
Emily says she would definitely encourage other women to become wind or solar technicians, especially if they like problem solving.
“If something isn’t working properly, I’m the one who gets to determine the problem, figure out a solution, and implement it. It’s a lot of hard work and requires dedication, but finding a solution that works is very satisfying. It’s my favorite part of the job.”
If you or someone you know would like to explore renewable energy career opportunities, check out DTE’s career page.