Jim Bennett, a renowned expert in environmental review and natural resource development on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS), retired after 43 years of federal service. His career culminated in over seven years as the Renewable Energy Program Manager at the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), where he spearheaded the dramatic expansion of Atlantic renewable energy leasing. He oversaw the installation of the first OCS steel-in-the-water structure and secured approvals for the first two commercial-scale offshore wind farms in U.S. waters. Prior to this role, Bennett directed BOEM's Division of Environmental Assessment for numerous years. His extensive experience and unparalleled expertise are now being shared with the burgeoning national offshore wind industry. He provides industry training and collaborates with Burns & MacDonnell, a leading global business and technology consultancy. His expertise encompasses OCS development, environmental impact statements, renewable energy projects, offshore wind energy, wind farm development, environmental regulations, federal agencies, BOEM, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Atlantic offshore wind, commercial wind farms, steel-in-the-water, renewable energy leasing, environmental assessment, natural resource management, energy policy, marine environment, coastal zone management, environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, offshore development, energy industry, consulting, training, Burns & MacDonnell, Jim Bennett, retirement, career achievements, leadership, program management, environmental review, Outer Continental Shelf, United States, wind power, renewable resources, sustainable energy, energy transition, offshore wind industry, environmental protection, marine resources, coastal communities, stakeholder engagement, public policy, energy development, environmental consulting, technical expertise, industry best practices, regulatory framework, environmental impact assessment, permitting process, project management, wind turbine technology, offshore platforms, subsea cables, grid connection, transmission infrastructure, energy economics, financial analysis, risk assessment, due diligence, environmental studies, scientific research, data analysis, modeling, environmental monitoring, mitigation measures, conservation strategies, sustainable development, climate change, energy security, job creation, economic growth, innovation, technology advancement, offshore wind projects, renewable energy certificates, power purchase agreements, supply chain, manufacturing, installation, operation, maintenance, decommissioning, environmental justice, community benefits, stakeholder engagement, public outreach, education, training programs, workforce development, career opportunities, offshore wind workforce, environmental stewardship, marine ecosystems, ocean health, biodiversity, protected species, marine mammals, sea turtles, birds, fish, benthic communities, water quality, air quality, noise pollution, visual impacts, navigation safety, maritime activities, commercial fishing, recreational boating, coastal recreation, tourism, cultural resources, historic preservation, tribal consultation, government relations, public affairs, media relations, communications, legal issues, regulatory affairs, policy analysis, strategic planning, business development, market analysis, competitive landscape, industry trends, emerging technologies, best practices, knowledge sharing, professional development, leadership development, mentorship, consulting services, technical consulting, engineering services, environmental services, project management services, due diligence services, regulatory compliance services, training services, education services, Jim Bennett, Burns & MacDonnell, BOEM, OCS, offshore wind, renewable energy, environmental review, natural resources.