Operations and Maintenance Manager, Kruger Energy L.P.
Clean Energy Career Profile
Ever wonder what it would be like to work as a wind turbine technician, 500 feet in the air? Or to work as a solar farm electrician, harnessing the power of the sun, and using it to charge a massive on-site battery system? CanREA’s Clean Energy Career Profiles ask Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage workers what they do, how they got into this line of work, and what advice they have for others looking to work in the renewable energy and energy storage sector.
In 2023, CanREA spoke with Jordan Regnier, Operations and Maintenance Manager, Kruger Energy L.P., to find out more about his occupational journey.
| Name: | Jordan Regnier |
| Job: | Operations and Maintenance Manager |
| Company: | Kruger Energy L.P. |
Career journey
After earning a diploma in Electronics Engineering Technology, Jordan worked as an electronics technician, repairing, installing and commissioning 2-way radio systems. At the time, Jordan was living in Southwestern Ontario with an abundance of wind turbines in the landscape, and his brother had a job with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Wanting to try something new, Jordan applied for a job as a site technician at Kruger Energy, where he has now spent nearly 10-years as a Site Technician, Site Lead, and now, O&M Supervisor. In these roles, Jordan has leveraged his previous education, on-the-job experience and OEM training to gain the confidence, competence and skills required for his roles.
A day in the life
Jordan oversees day-to-day operations and works closely with OEM and service providers to maintain wind turbines. In addition, he engages in contractor project management while accounting for costs, safety and quality. He has seven direct reports and is responsible for budgeting and the monthly reporting of key performance indicators (KPIs). He drives continuous improvement on a daily and monthly basis, exploring solutions to wind turbine challenges and balance of plant (BOP), and ensuring he considers ergonomics and health and safety in his work.
Quick advice
“If looking for college choices, pick a renewable program or something that is mechanical or electrical. (electronics, millwright, machinist, industrial electrician) They are all good bases and can be transferable years later.”
“Apply! My team has hired people fresh out of school, as well as people who have 10 years of experience in other fields.”
—Jordan Regnier
Important skills
- Interpersonal – having constant communications with OEM/Service provider.
- Leadership — acting as a supervisor to technicians
- Analytical – having the ability to look at problems and find or help find solutions.
- Organizational – with a lot of things going on, the ability to stay organized and to not let anything be forgotten or missed is key.
- Time management – the ability to prioritize and schedule is important as well.