Power Players Spotlight: Meet Steve HunnWhat is your approach to helping clients meet their renewable energy goals?
“My approach focuses on mentoring and supporting the team to solve complex issues and improve efficiency. That support ultimately results in better designs and more value for our clients. We use every technology tool we have access to, each applied where it makes the most sense, along with our engineering judgment and experience, to help clients maximize power production, reduce construction costs, and avoid long-term operation and maintenance issues such as erosion.”
What is your favorite source of renewable energy and why?
“Hydroelectric is my favorite, it’s an oldie but a goodie. I’m a bit biased because I grew up in a paper mill town with five mills within ten river miles. It was once one of the hardest-working rivers in the United States. I also had a friend who invested in bypass hydroelectric in South America, where portions of streams were diverted through turbines and then returned to the river. Their goal was small-scale production near the point of use, to bring power to remote villages.”
What project is your favorite and why?
“TAG and Shallow Basket hold a special place in my heart. They were my first projects where I really got deep into the KWRE world and involved a lot of forensics and troubleshooting.”
What’s your favorite solution to a challenge you’ve faced?
“On the TAG project, we had an earthwork issue over part of the site. One of my favorite solutions came from that challenge. After some analysis, we found we could solve it without major revisions. By applying a small adjustment at the vertical control benchmark, we shifted that portion of the design vertically in the field and achieved balanced earthwork.”
Why are you passionate about renewable energy?
“I like diversity and choices, and renewable energy brings that to the table.”
Outside of KWRE, what are your favorite hobbies?
“Soccer, dogs, road trips and camping, and fishing.”
What are you currently reading?
“I’m not a big reader, but I enjoy podcasts like Joe Rogan and Jordan Peterson, and I watch The Why Files on YouTube.”
What’s been your favorite moment at KWRE?
“Not a single moment, but more a collection of moments. I enjoy bringing wisdom and experience to the team. I’ve learned a lot over the years and sometimes see the world a little differently. It’s been meaningful to share that perspective with others.”