In an intriguing blend of meticulous professionalism and high-octane hobbies, Jerry Hur, a research technician at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), exemplifies dedication and precision in his work while embracing an adventurous spirit off the clock. With over 15 years of experience, Hur has earned numerous accolades for his contributions to innovative research endeavors, including the prestigious 2024 Distinguished Member of Operations Staff award. Yet, away from the lab, he finds excitement as a competitive drifter, a form of car racing that challenges both skill and nerve.

Where Precision Meets Passion: Discover the Unseen Side of NREL’s Top Technician

Precision and Leadership in Renewable Energy Research

Jerry Hur’s journey at NREL began in 2008 when he joined as a subcontractor, quickly transitioning to a full-time role due to his exceptional skills. His expertise lies in instrumentation and data acquisition systems, which are crucial for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of research data. Over the years, Hur has become a cornerstone of the Flatirons Campus, leading by example and setting new standards for safety and efficiency.Hur’s leadership extends beyond his technical prowess. He has trained countless junior technicians, instilling in them the importance of meticulous documentation and adherence to protocols. His methods for defining minimum drawing standards, instrumentation checklists, and deployment kits have been widely adopted across the team, enhancing overall performance. According to Jeroen van Dam, acting research operations director, Hur’s commitment to safety and quality has significantly contributed to the success of various projects.

A Legacy of Safety and Innovation

Safety is paramount in Hur’s work, especially given the nature of his tasks, which include climbing meteorological towers, working on wind turbines, and handling medium-voltage equipment. Despite these challenges, Hur maintains an impeccable safety record—a testament to his diligence and foresight. Arlinda Huskey, group manager of NREL’s Manufacturing and Characterization group, commends Hur for his ability to balance innovation with caution, ensuring that every project meets the highest safety standards.Hur’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Throughout his career, he has received multiple awards, including four President’s awards and two Outstanding Team Staff Awards. However, the 2024 Distinguished Member of Operations Staff award marks his first individual recognition, highlighting his significant impact on NREL’s mission. For Hur, this honor is more than just an accolade; it represents a step toward leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

The Intersection of Professionalism and Personal Passion

While Hur’s professional life revolves around precision and safety, his personal interests reveal a different side of his character. Competitive drifting, a sport that involves intentionally losing traction in the rear wheels to slide through turns, offers him an outlet for adventure and thrill-seeking. This high-speed hobby might seem at odds with his meticulous work ethic, but it underscores Hur’s versatility and desire to explore different facets of life.Hur’s passion for drifting is just one of many pursuits that keep him engaged outside the lab. He also enjoys snowboarding, listening to reggae music, and spending time with his family. His children, Lily and Nathan, are now young adults attending college, and Hur takes pride in their achievements. Balancing a demanding career with personal interests and family responsibilities is no small feat, yet Hur manages it all with grace and determination.

Building Bridges Between Past and Future

Hur’s story is deeply rooted in the American dream. Born to refugees who fled the Laotian Civil War, Hur’s parents settled in North Denver in 1979 with limited resources and English proficiency. Despite these challenges, they built a life for their family, finding support within the local Hmong community. Hur’s father eventually secured a job at Lockheed Martin, while his mother worked at Ball Aerospace, paving the way for Hur’s future opportunities.After graduating from high school, Hur joined the Air Force, where he honed his technical skills as a flight line avionics technician. His military service took him around the world, maintaining aircraft fleets and participating in historic relocations. When he returned to Denver, Hur leveraged his experience to secure a position at NREL, where he has continued to grow and contribute to groundbreaking research.

Collaboration and Creativity in Cutting-Edge Projects

One of Hur’s most notable collaborations has been with Robb Wallen, an NREL research engineer. Together, they developed a medium-voltage data acquisition system that forms the backbone of the Flatirons Campus data collection network. This system continuously measures power flow in high-resolution, enabling precise monitoring of grid integration assets like wind turbines and battery storage. Hur’s hands-on approach and innovative mindset were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.Wallen praises Hur for his self-motivation and creativity, noting that he always seeks out the next big challenge. “Jerry’s ability to think outside the box and come up with practical solutions is what sets him apart,” Wallen said. This collaborative spirit is evident in many of Hur’s projects, where he thrives on finding new ways to improve processes and technologies.

Continuing the Journey: A Commitment to Growth and Impact

As Hur looks to the future, he remains focused on making a lasting impact at NREL. While he continues to work full-time, he is also pursuing an associate’s degree from Front Range Community College, furthering his education and expanding his knowledge base. Hur’s dedication to learning and growth reflects his broader goal of contributing positively to society.In addition to his professional ambitions, Hur cherishes the time spent with his family and engaging in hobbies that bring him joy. Whether it’s drifting on a racetrack or enjoying reggae music, Hur finds balance in pursuing his passions while staying committed to his career and community. As he navigates life’s twists and turns, one thing is certain: Jerry Hur will continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of renewable energy research.