Oliver Piper

Current Employer/Organisation Name

RWE Renewables

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I graduated in 2019 and began my career as a quality assurance engineer at a pre-cast concrete manufacturer. This role kept me busy during the early days of COVID, and while I had always intended to move into the renewables industry straight away, I am grateful for the experience. Working under tight deadlines and meeting high client expectations taught me valuable lessons that continue to serve me well today.

After this, I became an Onshore Wind Development Project Manager at CleanEarth Energy, the same company where I completed my second-year university placement. I’m convinced that my prior placement and the relationships I built within the business played a crucial role in being offered a project manager position immediately.

Following a couple of years at CleanEarth, I transitioned into a similar role at RWE Renewables. This is my first experience working in a large corporate environment, and it has been interesting to learn how businesses operate at different scales. At RWE, my main focus has been a Development of National Significance called Abertillery Wind Farm.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I have always been passionate about contributing directly to the renewables industry, recognising the need to shift away from traditional forms of energy generation. One of the aspects I enjoy most about my role is its versatility, from visiting schools, to negotiating with landowners and coordinating complex planning applications that bring together a wide range of specialists.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Tennis Society

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The varied modules and lecturers. My highlight was the last year’s visit to Sark!

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

In addition to the diverse range of modules and lecturers, I also appreciated being part of a relatively small cohort of fewer than 40 students.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Location, course and reputation.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

From my experience, having a relevant degree helps you get your foot in the door, but it is really your soft skills that make you the most valuable.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Network, be prepared to work hard and focus on your soft skills.

What are your plans for the future?

Continue as a Development Project Manager, with the aim of bringing forward some of the largest onshore wind farms in the country.