NREL Visitor Experience
In this case study, I highlight my role as Production Manager for a large-scale visitor experience at NREL’s Solar Research Facility. Working closely with designers, architects, vendors, and the communications team, I helped transform the building’s main entryway into an engaging, story-driven environment that reflects NREL’s leadership in solar innovation and inspires both employees and visitors.
An Inspiring Welcome at the Solar Energy
Research Facility
As part of NREL’s solar visitor experience team, I partnered with the lead designer to bring this vision to life. The building’s central entry was transformed into an inspiring focal point, featuring a bold hanging banner that captured the spirit of innovation and enclave graphics showcasing the lab’s leading research partnerships and programs.
Collaborating on Execution
Once the concept was approved, we worked closely with the vendor to explore hardware options and material solutions. As one of the first projects to involve an outside vendor, this phase required close coordination with facilities to ensure all safety and training requirements were met. The building architect was engaged to confirm structural integrity and verify that the hardware aligned with existing wall framing and materials. Facilities also developed an installation plan that met all safety standards. This stage was critical for aligning stakeholders, securing approvals, and paving the way for seamless execution.
Final Artwork and Production Preparation
Once all materials and installation plans were approved, I built out the final artwork based on the approved concept. I collaborated with the vendor on material selection to ensure all production requirements were met and coordinated stakeholder review for final approval. I also confirmed that the high-resolution artwork would reproduce cleanly at full scale, ensuring sharp detail and accurate color at final output.
Installation Management
Once production was complete, I worked in tandem with the facilities team as they coordinated safety protocols and installation equipment logistics. I was on site to supervise the installation, ensuring the artwork was produced to specification and installed with precision. Throughout the process, I verified that colors, finishes, and dimensions matched approved proofs and that all materials aligned properly. This phase ensured a smooth installation process and a final result that met all technical and design requirements.
From Concept to Completion
Once the banner was installed, I partnered with the onsite print shop to produce and install the enclave graphics. The design was printed in sections, allowing the portion featuring partners and projects to be updated as needed. I drew on my visitor experience work at Denver International Airport to engage the right teams, manage expectations, mitigate risk, and ensure every production detail was executed with precision. The completed installation became a centerpiece of the Solar Research Facility, demonstrating design-led innovation, instilling pride among employees, and inspiring visitors as a featured stop on guided tours.