Celebrating Women in Wind: Ilayda Uce Journey at Global Wind Service

We meet Ilayda Ice from our Turkish office—a team member whose help drive our mission forward. In this interview, Ilayda shares her journey, the challenges and the impact of her work in supporting GWS’s renewable energy goals.

How long have you been working at GWS and what brought you here initially?

I started at GWS in June 2023. What really drew me in was the company’s global leadership in renewable energy—specifically its commitment to advancing wind power around the world. That focus on sustainability aligns perfectly with my personal values, so it felt like the ideal place to combine my professional skills.

What were your first impressions of working with GWS?

Right from the start, I noticed how collaborative and forward-thinking everyone is. Teams here prioritize solutions and results. It’s both motivating and inspiring to be part of such a dynamic environment.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I manage immigration processes from start to finish—preparing applications, aligning work permit/visa strategies with project timelines, and coordinating with both our Operations team and government authorities to address any urgent needs.

What’s the most challenging part of your job, and how do you overcome it?

The biggest challenge is adapting to ever-changing immigration regulations in various countries while still meeting tight deadlines. I tackle this by staying proactive, keeping up to date with the latest requirements, working closely with immigration consultants, and always having a backup plan. Flexibility and clear communication help us stay on schedule, even when regulations shift unexpectedly.

Can you share a moment that made you especially proud?

There was training that was urgently required for a project for our technicians, but the consulate handling the visas delayed their approval. I quickly explored alternative immigration routes and negotiated an expedited process. Throughout it all, I kept OPS fully informed. Thanks to that agility and transparency, we managed to meet the critical deadline. It was a great reminder that with enough creativity and preparation, we can turn obstacles into opportunities.

How would you describe the support and training you’ve received at GWS?

Previously, I had to prepare individual letters for each technician assigned to the same project. Thanks to IT’s support, letter processing is now automated, streamlining our workflow and reducing errors. Looking ahead, there are plans to integrate automation and robotics into the GMC department to further minimize repetitive tasks and enhance project tracking.

What do you enjoy most about your job and why?

What I love most is knowing that my work directly impacts the growth of renewable energy. Every visa or permit I secure helps our teams get on-site to build wind turbines around the globe. It’s rewarding to see that my day-to-day efforts are part of a much bigger mission—one that genuinely makes a difference for the planet.

If you could describe your experience at GWS in one word or phrase, what would it be?

I’d call it “dynamic precision.” The job involves constantly adapting to new rules and deadlines, yet we have to be extremely accurate and detail-oriented in every step. It’s a fast-paced balance of urgency and meticulousness, keeping both projects and people moving forward.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize and appreciate the contributions of women across GWS who help drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainability every day. Thank you for being part of our journey!