Meet the Team: Geonhwa Ryu | OWC Korea
At OWC, our teams are constantly expanding, into more locations, in expertise and in sectors of influence, so that our people can truly drive safety and sustainability across our energy and oceans.
Our people are at the heart of what we do, and we invite you to get to know our team members so you can meet the energy behind change.
Ahead of GWEC’s Wind Energy Summit, this week we speak to Geonhwa Rya – a principal consultant based in our Korean office.
Position: Principal Consultant
Office: OWC Korea
Hobbies: Cooking and Movies
What does your day-to-day look like at OWC?
Every day, I get the opportunity to work with colleagues from different countries – which keeps things varied and enjoyable.
We not only work, but also understand and respect each other’s cultures. And my family and I are proud of my work and my position in OWC.
What inspired you to join your industry?
I majored in atmospheric science in university, and my dream was to analyze weather forecasts. However, during my master’s degree, I happened to participate in R&D related to wind energy, and that changed my goal. I realized that atmospheric science is closely related to energy fields in addition to weather forecasting, and I thought conversely that they might need me. That was the turning point.
Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?
I always think about what new topic to write a paper. Consulting is based on given guidelines, but the experience, expertise, and academic depth of engineers are also important. I always need to identify new issues and have the will to solve them. And for me, that means a paper or a conference presentation.
Outside of work, I always think about how I can have more fun with my 30-month-old little son. Work is important, but my role as a family member, husband, and father is also very important. Yesterday, to make good memories with my son, we planted carrots and strawberries in the kindergarten yard. I am very excited about this!
What does the future look like in energy and oceans in Korea?
The shift to renewable energy is an unstoppable and ever-evolving trend in Korea. Although still in its infancy and facing some initial roadblocks, the future of energy and oceans looks bright across the country. I believe that increased government commitments and the regions energy experts, including our team at OWC Korea, will help further develop the industry and secure a more sustainable future!
What do you enjoy most about working as part of OWC Korea?
I am in charge of wind resource and energy yield assessment. Of course, there are some engineers who know how to use software, but there are not many people in Korea who have high-level expertise in this field. I still have a lot to learn, but I feel proud of myself when many organizations, universities, and experts come to me, and I try to give them answers that are not lacking, much more professional. I always try to have an attitude of improving, and that can give people who look at me and OWC a positive perception. That is the driving force for me to always improve. Also, many people in OWC are not restricted by their work location. I also work from home, which is not typical in Korean culture. My friends always envy me and say that OWC is a godsend company!
