Presentation of an unprecedented challenge to Jackie Chimiak typically results in an innovative solution.

This skill developed during seven years as a U.S. Navy officer, where she oversaw global logistics for undersea special operations teams. Delivering specialized gear, sustenance, and critical supplies to Navy SEALs in isolated regions demanded creative problem-solving – a capability she describes as “achieving a positive outcome” – vital for covert operations. This expertise now fuels her role at GE Vernova, where she serves as Onshore Wind commercial sales leader for Repower and Services.

“Client engagement extends beyond product sales – it’s about understanding operational challenges,” explains the Schenectady, New York resident and military veteran. “The key question: how can we develop effective, customized solutions?”

Her responsibilities frequently involve assisting utilities, independent power producers, or agricultural enterprises in expanding renewable capacity through new turbine installations. Equally often, she manages Repower initiatives – modernizing aging wind turbines with advanced drivetrains, rotors, and components to enhance efficiency, extend operational lifespan, and improve reliability.

“This isn’t merely component replacement,” Chimiak clarifies. “Our objective is securing 10-20 additional years of turbine functionality based on specific product capabilities.” Since launching its Repower program in 2017, GE Vernova has upgraded more than 6,000 U.S. wind turbines, adding over 2.5 gigawatts of grid capacity through infrastructure optimization. By extending equipment lifecycles, these initiatives conserve raw materials and energy that would otherwise be required for new turbine production, benefiting both clients and sustainability efforts.

Chimiak (front row, second from left) with the crew of the USS Hopper.

“I thrive on being the frontline representative establishing enduring relationships,” she shares. “My military background instilled strategic thinking and a commitment to service-oriented missions.” These attributes seamlessly align with her current professional responsibilities.

Creating Strategic Solutions

Chimiak earned a degree in oceanography and commissioned as an officer through the U.S. Naval Academy in 2014. Seeking diverse experiences and global opportunities, she found her calling in the Navy.

Stationed primarily in Hawaii throughout her military career, she accumulated 400+ days at sea as assistant supply officer aboard a ballistic missile defense destroyer, later serving as logistics officer for special operations units. However, in 2021, seeking new challenges beyond traditional military leadership paths, she transitioned to civilian roles.

“Entering my late twenties, I desired continued creativity and problem-solving,” she explains. Aligning with organizational values became crucial. Upon discovering GE Vernova’s Junior Officer Leadership Program (JOLP) – a two-year rotational training initiative for military-to-civilian transitions – she eagerly embraced the opportunity.

Chimiak with the delegation at Clean Power on the Hill, April 2025.

JOLP allowed Chimiak to explore various business sectors. Unexpectedly, commercial sales became her niche. “It mirrored my special operations experience,” she notes. “Challenges aren’t clear-cut, requiring adaptive thinking without predefined solutions.”

Navigating evolving technologies, regulations, and tax frameworks to optimize renewable energy projects keeps her engaged. “The potential exists,” she emphasizes. “We must collaborate to identify effective pathways.”

Advancing Energy Security Through Renewables

Veterans comprise a significant portion of the wind energy workforce nationally, with nearly 20% representation at GE Vernova’s Pensacola, Florida Advanced Manufacturing Factory – a critical hub for domestic turbine and repower technology. Chimiak sees this as natural alignment: “Structured environments emphasizing teamwork and skill development resonate with military professionals.” Many colleagues also share the company’s mission to resolve the “energy trilemma” through affordable, reliable national energy strategies.

“Our military service transcended personal interests,” she observes. “Pursuing renewable energy solutions feels like a continuation of that mission.”

Through Project Vanguard, which facilitates veteran transitions to energy sector roles, Chimiak actively promotes career opportunities at GE Vernova. As a prominent member of the company’s 1,200-strong Veterans Network, she continues advocating for renewable energy despite pursuing an online MBA from the University of North Carolina this fall.

“Energy has become as essential as food and water,” she recently addressed Congress. “Veterans currently in the industry are working to maximize grid capacity – wind energy being a critical component.”

Putting together the pieces at Eight Point Wind in New York.

Chimiak eagerly anticipates daily problem-solving challenges. “GE Vernova’s opportunities attracted me – I’ve witnessed colleagues transition across sourcing, commercial, and engineering roles over 20-30 year careers,” she shares.

“Broadening professional experiences expands one’s capabilities,” she emphasizes. “This diversity proves crucial when addressing national energy challenges. We’re actively contributing to solutions for the entire energy trilemma.”

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