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Dana Olson
Global Solar Segment Leader
Professional Background
Dana Olson is a distinguished leader in the field of materials science, particularly within renewable energy. With an extensive career that spans over several prestigious organizations, Dana has made significant contributions to the advancement of solar energy technologies. Currently, Dana serves as the Global Solar Segment Leader at DNV GL - Energy, where she plays a crucial role in shaping the future of renewable energy solutions. Through her leadership, DNV GL has been able to bolster its position as a frontrunner in the energy advisory sector, driving innovations that accommodate both technological advancements and environmental sustainability.
Prior to her current role, Dana demonstrated her unparalleled expertise in solar energy as the Technology Manager at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office. In this capacity, she was instrumental in managing and overseeing various research and development projects that pushed the envelope on solar technology deployment. Dana’s tenure at the DOE was marked by her role as a Science, Engineering, and Technology Advisor within the SunShot Initiative, where she strategically aligned technology development efforts with national energy goals.
Dana’s career also includes pivotal positions at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), where she served as a Senior Scientist. Her work at the NREL positioned her at the forefront of renewable energy research and innovation, enabling her to contribute heavily to national policy efforts aimed at transitioning to more sustainable energy sources. Before this, she honed her research capabilities as an Intelligence Community Postdoctoral Fellow at Sandia National Laboratories, a prestigious opportunity that immersed her in cutting-edge scientific challenges that demanded innovative solutions. Her early career included valuable experiences as a Research Assistant at NREL, further establishing her foundational skills in materials science and energy technologies.
Education and Achievements
Dana's educational background is rooted in an impressive academic pedigree, with a focus on materials science and chemistry. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Materials Science from the Colorado School of Mines, where she conducted research that combined her interests in chemistry and sustainable energy technologies. Her pursuit of knowledge began with a Master of Science (MS) degree in Materials Science from Penn State University, where she developed a robust understanding of the scientific principles driving material innovations. Dana's academic journey culminated with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chemistry from Carleton College, laying the groundwork for her interdisciplinary approaches to materials design and energy solutions.
Dana’s extensive education, combined with her hands-on experience, has enabled her to achieve numerous professional milestones. Her leadership has influenced policy and research directions in renewable energy that align technical innovations with pragmatic solutions, ensuring a sustainable future.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Dana has been recognized for her expertise in solar energy technology and materials science. She has been a prominent figure in various industry discussions and forums, advocating for the adoption of advanced renewable energy technologies. Her research and insights have contributed to increasing awareness and understanding of solar energy's potential impacts on global energy markets.
Dana has authored and co-authored numerous papers and publications in the fields of materials science and renewable energy, reflecting her commitment to knowledge sharing and advancement in these crucial areas. Her work not only demonstrates her technical capabilities but also underscores her dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers in pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
Keywords Relevance
Dana Olson’s career has been interwoven with significant advancements in solar technology—both in government and private sectors—making her a pivotal contributor to the renewable energy landscape. Dana's role has highlighted her ability to translate complex scientific research into actionable policies that promote widespread adoption of renewable technologies, ensuring her place as a respected authority in materials science and energy innovation.
