Finding Purpose 100 Meters Above the Sea: Lila’s Horizon

Before going offshore, Lila gained hands-on experience at the Le Havre factory, where blades and nacelles are produced. As part of the team, she ensured the readiness of nacelles for future offshore parks. “I am responsible for the maintenance of the machines at the next wind farm in Noirmoutier,” she explains. Over 14 weeks, she performed maintenance tasks that involved powering up machines, rotating the hub, and maneuvering the blade system, sharpening her understanding of the turbines before her first day at sea.

Her journey also included specialized training across Europe. “When I joined Siemens Gamesa, I had the opportunity to train in the Netherlands, England, and Belgium,” she continues. “Recently, I also went to Germany and Denmark.”

This training focused on safety, working at heights, and adapting to the standards of the wind energy industry. “I’ve been trained by amazing, supportive teams across Europe. That’s what helped me evolve,” she reflects.

Starting her shift every day at 7 am with coffee at the Fécamp maintenance base, Lila is ready to embark on her 11-hour journey to the Fécamp offshore site. Though she’s the only woman on her team, she insists it makes no difference: “We are all equal and we work as a team.” The picturesque waters of Normandy, a mere 16 km from the renowned cliffs of Étretat, form the backdrop for her work. 

The 45-minute trip leads to the site with 71 turbines, generating a total of 500 megawatts, enough to supply power to 770,000 people, representing about 60% of the population living in the Seine Maritime department.

As the boat approaches, Lila reflects on her purpose: "Since I was a child, I’ve had a deep desire to protect nature, which drew me to the field of renewable energies. This job allows me to make a meaningful contribution to preserving the planet.”

Some moments on the job feel unforgettable. One of her favorites? Lunch breaks on top of a turbine, surrounded by the open sea and sky. “It’s something I never imagined growing up, but now I can’t live without it.

When her two-week rotation ends, a different rhythm begins. For Lila, her time spent at home is just as important as her time offshore. “14 days at sea, 14 days off, it’s perfect. I get to ride my motorcycle, visit family, and just breathe.”