NREL's Brent Logan Named Emerging Leader Under 30 by The Institute of Internal Auditors

Young Professional Is Riding the New Wave of Internal Auditing Leadership

Dec. 29, 2023 | By Ryan Horns | Contact media relations

In the realm of internal auditing, where precision meets inquiry, Brent Logan has already made a mark in just under a decade.

As a senior Internal Audit and Audit Analytics professional at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), he was recently honored by The Institute of Internal Auditors as an Emerging Leader Under 30. The accolade speaks volumes about his ongoing role in propelling the profession forward.

A man smiles at a camera — Brent Logan. *Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL*

“When I tell people I’m an auditor, people think we’re going to look at everything they are doing wrong,” Brent said. “Instead of being feared, we’re really a partner with management at NREL.”

Logan works to help transcend that perception of auditing, seeking clarity to help implement new programs or ensure compliance on projects to further momentum for others.

Four years ago, a fresh-faced Logan, armed with a background in public accounting, joined NREL. Without a robust grasp of internal auditing yet, he saw the opportunity and knew he was due for a change away from public accounting.

“I really liked the idea of auditing. When I saw the opening at NREL for an internal auditor I was lucky enough to get hired, and four years later I’m still here and still loving it,” he said.

In recognition of this award, Logan expresses gratitude to his mentors, especially NREL's External Audit Manager Kris Green, who he said encouraged and molded his approach to the profession.

Today, his routine is anything but monotonous, from closing out subcontract audits to providing assurance for capital projects funded by the Inflation Reduction Act.

But it is not all about spreadsheets and dual monitors for Logan. Outside the office, he is an avid cyclist, embracing both the road and mountain trails of picturesque Colorado. An advocate for multiple sclerosis research, he remains pivotal in fundraising efforts and is set to co-captain NREL’s team for the annual Bike MS Ride in 2024.

Purely out of his curiosity and desire to learn, Logan even became a member of the Lavender Association of Colorado Board of Directors, which showcases his diverse interests and community engagement.

From auditing hedge funds to spearheading significant projects at NREL, Logan’s journey is a testament to adaptability and growth. At 29, his career shows a pathway for others venturing into the world of internal auditing.