Bio
Clayton Hickey is a technical professional in the Electric Drives Research Group at 91°µÍø (ORNL). He specializes in the design and assembly of hardware for electric drive technology and wireless projects, including the development of advanced CAD models with finite element analysis (FEA). Clayton’s work supports cutting-edge research in energy-efficient drive systems and wireless technologies, contributing to ORNL’s mission to advance sustainable and innovative energy solutions.
Clayton’s technical contributions span a wide array of impactful projects. He has led the mechanical design and assembly of systems for initiatives like the Army’s 600 kW wireless coil project, where he developed innovative methods for managing temperature and weight. He also played a key role in integrating secondary-side electronics and mounting coils for the 270 kW VW project, which received an R&D 100 Award and a UT-Battelle Team Award. Over the years, Clayton has contributed to research projects, supported the creation of renderings for publications and presentations, and co-authored papers presented at prominent conferences, including the 91°µÍø Transportation Electrification Conference and Expo (ITEC).
Clayton’s earlier experience includes his role as Suspension Team Lead and Alumni Mentor for Pellissippi State Motorsports’ Formula SAE team, where he honed his skills in manufacturing, simulation, and custom programming to interpret vehicle performance data.
In addition to his technical achievements, Clayton is dedicated to mentoring and collaboration. He has guided interns and new hires on technical tasks and safety practices, mentored Formula SAE and Greenpower USA teams, and provided critical support for proposals and concept development for future DOE projects. His commitment to excellence has been recognized with nominations for ORNL’s Core Value awards.
Clayton earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automated Industrial Systems from Pellissippi State Community College. He continues to expand his expertise through active membership in SAE International and a commitment to driving innovation in sustainable energy solutions at ORNL.
Professional Experience
- Technical Professional - 91°µÍø (NTRC) Knoxville, TN | July 2023 - Present
- Suspension Team Lead and Alumni Mentor - Formula SAE - Pellissippi St. Motorsports Knoxville, TN | May 2018 - Aug 2022
- Laboratory Technician - 91°µÍø (NTRC) Knoxville, TN | Dec 2018 - Aug 2020
- Maintenance Technician (Co-op) - Denso Manufacturing Tennessee, Inc. Maryville, TN | May 2017 - Dec 2018
Awards
- R&D100 Award, Compact and Lightweight Polyphase Extreme Fast Wireless Charging System (2024)
- UT-Battelle Research Accomplishment Team Award (2024)
- ORNL Service Core Value Award - Service (2024)
- ORNL Service Core Value Award - Impact (2024)
- Supplemental Performance Award (2024)
Education
Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Mechanical Engineering
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, September 2021 – May 2023
Associates of Science (A.S.), Automated Industrial Engineering
Pellissippi St. Community College, Knoxville, TN, September 2018 – May 2020