H2@Work Employee Spotlight: Aron Koekkoek

Aron is part of the NPI & ELX Tech Support team at Plug in Rotterdam. With a master’s in Energy Flow and Process Technology and hands-on experience with 5 MW electrolyzer systems, he ensures testing feedback feeds back into design and that field units run smoothly. He also represents employees on the Works Council, keeping teams aligned and operations seamless.

Living the Rotterdam Life

Aron calls Rotterdam home, sharing an apartment with two close friends and enjoying family nearby. He stays active with cycling, running, tennis, fitness, and ice skating, depending on the season. His weekends often include dinners out or drinks with friends. On vacation, he recharges in nature, whether snowboarding, hiking, or long cycling trips.

From TU Delft to Plug

Aron earned a master’s in Energy Flow and Process Technology at TU Delft, focusing on renewables. He joined Frames just before its acquisition by Plug, drawn by projects in clean energy. That timing let him begin work on first-generation 5 MW electrolyzer systems right away, blending his academic background with real-world impact.

Bridging Design and Support

In his role, Aron ensures feedback from testing flows back into the design and manufacturing of second-generation 5 MW units. He also troubleshoots operational issues for field-deployed systems as part of the Technical Support team. On top of that, he represents employees in the Works Council, advising Dutch leadership on local priorities.

Milestones and Challenges

One unforgettable moment was hearing the first bubbles of hydrogen from two of our 5 MW electrolysers in 2024. That milestone marked success for both Plug and our customer. When new challenges arise, Aron reminds himself that past obstacles were solved, too. He stays focused, keeps his enthusiasm high, and looks for areas to improve.

Excited About Hydrogen

Aron believes hydrogen is key to a green energy future. He loves being part of a team that turns ideas into working systems rather than just slides. Seeing innovations scale up over time drives his passion and motivates him to help make hydrogen commonplace in the decades to come.

A Balanced Philosophy

Aron sees good intentions in people everywhere, which helps him stay reasonable and open-minded. He also values hard work, balanced with sports and time with friends. For a laugh and a friendly chat, he invites you to join him at a local brown pub in Rotterdam.