Dan Pearce

Background

About Dan Pearce

I'm a seasoned engineering leader with 20+ years of experience delivering real innovation at the intersection of commercial R&D, clean energy, and complex engineering systems.My core focus today is on hydrogen-powered propulsion and storage systems, working on engine platforms from 50 kW to 2 MW across the automotive, marine, and off-highway machinery sectors. I thrive in advanced development environments where combustion, performance and emissions converge.Throughout my career, I’ve led cross-functional teams across software, test systems, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and data analytics—building new teams from the ground up and transforming existing ones. I’ve successfully delivered patentable innovations, secured government grants, and bridged the gap between academic and commercial research—supporting funded PhD programs and collaborative innovation initiatives.I bring experience in commercial negotiation and intellectual property strategy, having led the delivery of complex licensing, royalty, and IP agreements. I'm also a confident public speaker, presenting at academic conferences, industry panels, and customer-facing events, translating technical insights into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.My leadership style is based on technical expertise with a strategic vision, allowing me to navigate complex engineering challenges while aligning teams around clear, ambitious goals. I believe in fostering an environment where engineering talent is empowered and encouraged to think creatively, be curious and challenge assumptions - especially when faced with technical uncertainty or incomplete data sets. By promoting collaboration, continuous learning, and accountability, I help build resilient teams that deliver solutions and quantifiable value. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire confidence and ownership at every level, creating a culture where innovation thrives.Always open to collaboration in the clean tech and hydrogen innovation space.