Noah Gershon

I’m a fourth-year PhD in Civil Engineering, and am co-advised by Dr. Amy Javernick-Will and Dr. Abbie Liel. I am passionate about learning the tools and techniques needed to help communities rebuild more effectively after wildfires. Currently, I am studying the reconstruction of homes impacted by the Marshall wildfire disaster, which destroyed over 1000 homes in December 2021. My research examines the factors that influence both homeowners' and neighborhood rebuilding decisions, as well as the corresponding impacts on community outcomes related to sustainability and fire resilience.

Why I chose to pursue a PhD

Before coming to CU Boulder, I worked in solar photovoltaics in Hawaii for several years.  Because they are isolated islands, the electrical grids there are vulnerable to fluctuations in power generation from renewable energy sources. In Hawaii, I worked on technology to address this problem, enabling the islands to increase their reliance on solar energy.  This work fueled my passion for helping communities become more sustainable and adapt to the problems presented by climate change.  At the time, I believed that these problems required technical solutions, which led me to pursue my BS in Engineering Physics. Although I still think technology is vitally important, my focus has shifted to how social factors inform technology use and adoption. By studying these societal dynamics, I aim to enhance climate change-related disaster resilience.

Other interests/hobbies:

I love being outdoors and hanging out with my toddler. Most recently, I’ve been into vegetable gardening, fishing, and hiking.

Preferred pronouns: he/him/his

Education:

BS in Engineering Physics, University of Colorado Boulder, 2022

AS Electrical Engineering Technology, Ecotech Institute 2012