Episódios
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Facility owners are not waiting anymore. Across healthcare, higher education, government, and critical infrastructure, a growing number are building internal teams to self-perform automation work. This shift is not driven by cost, but by frustration, urgency, and the need for consistent, reliable service.
In this episode, you'll hear exactly why this trend is accelerating and what it means for your business. Owners are not trying to compete with contractors, but they no longer trust the current model to support their operations. If you're in the contracting or OEM space, this episode is a must-listen.
Topics covered include:
· The sharp rise in owner-led training and self-performance initiatives
· How inconsistent technician assignments are damaging service relationships
· Why vague service agreements are no longer acceptable to facility managers
· The operational risks driving owners to bypass traditional contractors
· A practical framework to rebuild trust and maintain long-term service relationships
If you're ready to understand what owners really need and how to stay ahead of this shift, this episode will point you in the right direction.
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This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast examines the transformation of a side project into one of the most recognized training providers in the building automation industry. It focuses on the strategic shifts, leadership lessons, and systemized processes that shaped Smart Buildings Academy from its inception to its current impact.
The story shared in this episode mirrors challenges many building automation professionals face when growing their careers or businesses. It presents a clear view into what it takes to scale, adapt, and lead with purpose.
Key topics covered include:
Transitioning from individual training sales to enterprise solutions Building internal teams, systems, and culture without external investors Creating scalable assessment tools that pinpoint skill gaps Adapting to market shifts and identifying long-term growth paths Exploring the next evolution in smart building workforce educationDiscover what it takes to lead, adapt, and build lasting impact in the smart buildings industry.
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If you're leading teams, overseeing projects, or managing budgets in building automation, this episode is for you. Training isn't just a line item. It affects how fast your jobs get done, how often your clients call back, and how long your employees stick around. This conversation challenges how you think about the cost of training by showing what happens when you measure its value the right way.
Instead of guessing, you'll learn how to track real numbers, get better results, and build a stronger team. You’ll hear case studies, practical metrics, and a clear process for capturing what training actually delivers.
Key topics include:
· The full cost of training, including what most companies miss
· How to measure performance gains before and after training
· Real-world examples showing the business impact of trained teams
· Metrics that reveal where your time and money go
· A step-by-step guide to creating your own training ROI tracker
Start making your training dollars work harder. Listen in now.
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In the latest episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will uncover what lies beneath temporary fixes that may seem harmless but carry significant hidden costs. If you've ever overridden an alarm to stop complaints or zip-tied a damper and walked away, this episode is for you.
This conversation examines the operational, financial, and safety impacts of short-term solutions. It also prompts a critical look at what these practices are truly costing your facility.
In this episode, you will explore:
What qualifies as a "band-aid fix" and why they are widespread The escalating risks created by temporary repairs The financial impact of recurring quick fixes Cultural patterns that support reactive maintenance Practical steps to improve building reliability and performanceListen to rethink what “just keeping it running” means and discover how to shift toward stable and efficient operations.
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Explore the full BAS project lifecycle in this episode, from sales and design to installation and service.
This episode is for building automation professionals who want a sharper understanding of how BAS projects develop from concept to ongoing service. Whether you focus on sales, design, installation, or support, this discussion outlines what makes a project succeed at every stage.
You will walk through each phase of a BAS project and learn where common pitfalls emerge. The episode offers insight into aligning teams, improving documentation, and supporting system performance after handoff.
Key topics include:
· Finding risks during scope and specification reviews
· Creating clear and accurate design documentation
· Managing installation and subcontractor coordination
· Improving programming and graphics for user clarity
· Building long-term service and lifecycle maintenance plans
Listen to examine your current project practices and identify where improvements can be made.
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Is your HVAC knowledge aligned with today’s smart building demands?
This episode explores variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and their growing role in building automation. As building complexity increases and energy efficiency becomes a priority, VRF systems offer a different approach that requires new skills and understanding from BAS professionals.
If you work in building automation, this conversation will help you see where the industry is heading and what it means for your work.
Topics covered:
Why VRF systems are gaining widespread adoption
How VRF components interact to enable precise zone control
Challenges with integration and proprietary communication protocols
When VRF is the right choice, and when it’s not
How AI and remote monitoring are shaping the future of HVAC
Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your edge in a changing BAS landscape.
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Many building automation systems are operating far below their potential. If you're only using basic features or managing your system with limited insight, you are likely missing out on performance, energy savings, and operational efficiency.
This episode focuses on you - the facility manager, the BAS technician, the energy consultant - and how to unlock the full capabilities of your system. You will hear real-world examples that highlight common issues and overlooked opportunities. More importantly, you will gain a new perspective on how to reclaim control and value from your existing system.
In this episode, you will explore:
What underutilized means in building automation Root causes that limit system performance Overlooked features that can improve efficiency Practical barriers and how to start addressing them Immediate actions to increase system valueThis episode encourages you to rethink your BAS strategy and start taking steps toward better performance and smarter building management.
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This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast focuses on a key factor affecting building performance and operational cost: the building operator.
If energy costs remain high despite efficient equipment, or tenant complaints persist after BAS upgrades, the problem may lie in overlooked operational practices. This episode examines how operator actions directly influence energy use, system performance, and downtime.
Designed for professionals managing facility systems and operations, the episode highlights what separates underperforming buildings from optimized ones.
Topics include:
The impact of trained operators on building efficiency and cost savings Core skills operators need beyond system knowledge The role of alarms, overrides, and scheduling in energy waste Common gaps in trend analysis and setpoint management Approaches to developing operator skills and accountabilityIf your building still is not performing the way it should, this episode will help you start asking the right questions.
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This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast focuses on critical discussions that directly impact building automation professionals. Instructors Matt Scott, Ethan Morris, and Michael Roper explore the evolving relationship between BAS professionals and IT departments, common pitfalls in BAS specifications, and the practical value of trend logging. The conversation is centered on real-world challenges and strategies for success in modern building projects.
The team shares insights based on field experiences, addressing issues that affect system performance, project timelines, and professional collaboration. This episode highlights actionable points for building automation professionals committed to delivering better outcomes.
Key Topics Covered:
The current state of collaboration between BAS teams and IT departments Why BAS devices are increasingly treated as IT assets Risks of not coordinating with IT during BAS deployments and how to avoid project delays Specification mistakes seen in BAS projects and professional ways to offer feedback The role of trend logs in troubleshooting, compliance, and performance improvementThis episode will help you strengthen your BAS practices and stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.
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Good air is about performance, health, and operational excellence. This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast explores the critical role that ASHRAE 62.1 plays in creating environments where people can thrive. Controls technicians, facilities managers, commissioning agents, and mechanical designers will benefit from understanding this essential ventilation standard.
Building professionals often recognize the importance of indoor air quality but may struggle to achieve it consistently. This episode highlights why simply moving air is not enough and what it takes to deliver clean, safe, and effective ventilation tailored to every space. The discussion provides a deeper appreciation for the nuances of air quality standards and their impact throughout the building lifecycle.
Key Topics Explored:
The meaning of ventilation and why airflow alone is insufficient How ASHRAE 62.1 sets minimum requirements for indoor air quality in commercial buildings The differences between the three approved ventilation methods and when to apply each The importance of commissioning and maintenance in sustaining healthy air environments How improper system installation and neglect can compromise even well-designed projectsASHRAE 62.1 ensures that buildings protect the health of occupants. Listen to Episode 492 to gain critical insights that can strengthen your projects and professional expertise.
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If you've worked on new construction, retrofits, or green building certifications, ASHRAE 90.1 is already familiar. However, using it effectively is another matter.
This episode focuses on how ASHRAE 90.1 influences your designs, energy compliance, and system planning. The discussion clarifies how this standard applies across key areas and what it means for your daily responsibilities in building automation.
For professionals seeking to improve building performance, align with energy codes, or support LEED goals, this episode offers practical context.
Topics covered include:
The building systems and design elements governed by ASHRAE 90.1 The role of the standard in state codes and federal guidelines Energy use targets across power, HVAC, lighting, and water heating Prescriptive vs. performance-based compliance methods Coordination strategies for efficient design and modelingExplore how ASHRAE 90.1 shapes your work by listening in now.
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Estimates shape the success of every building automation project. Knowing how to assess labor, materials, and subcontractor needs can determine your profitability and project outcomes.
This episode gives you a practical look at the estimating process, revealing what matters most when preparing accurate and competitive BAS proposals. You’ll gain a sharper sense of what to look for, where the risk lies, and how to improve the quality of your estimates.
Topics covered in this episode:
· The essentials of reviewing specifications and drawings
· System-level thinking for identifying control scope
· Device takeoffs and labor planning fundamentals
· Coordinating with subcontractors and managing scope
· The role of overhead, risk, and markup in the estimate
Listen in to sharpen your approach and strengthen your project planning.
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In episode 489 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we bring you a roundtable conversation designed specifically for building automation professionals who are hands-on in the field. This episode puts the focus on your day-to-day challenges and opportunities, offering perspectives from our Instructors who know exactly what you’re dealing with.
This is not about theory. It’s about the real decisions you make, the systems you work with, and the outcomes you are expected to deliver. Whether you're working on new construction, dealing with legacy systems, or navigating the increasing complexity of today’s controls, this episode gives you the pulse of what's happening right now in the BAS world.
Inside this episode, we’ll explore topics like:
Common reasons commissioning and recommissioning are skipped and how that impacts performance How the BAS landscape is shifting between standardized and highly customized designs The overlooked complexities of retrofitting older buildings and systems Where wireless sensors are gaining traction and what challenges still exist The expanding role of technicians from configuration to owner trainingThis episode is your opportunity to hear the kinds of discussions you probably wish were happening more often on the job. Listen in, learn from your peers, and apply new insights on your next project.
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What if the key to unlocking more profitable and efficient building automation projects was already at your fingertips?
In Episode 488, you’re invited into a detailed conversation tailored specifically for building automation professionals. This episode explores how OEMs like Johnson Controls are equipping their contractor channels with advanced tools - not just to sell, but to successfully deliver full BAS solutions from estimation to final commissioning.
This episode is about helping you rethink the way you approach your BAS projects. Whether you're estimating, designing, installing, or managing the handoff to operations, there are resources out there that can make you faster, more accurate, and more profitable.
You won’t just hear about features - you’ll hear how these tools and processes can be applied to your business and your daily operations.
Key topics explored include:
The underestimated power of estimation tools and how they impact risk, labor, and material accuracy. How engineering efforts in the sales phase can translate into operational success and earlier cash flow. What to consider when transitioning to IP controls and how OEM partnerships are shaping the network infrastructure conversation. How to strategically manage materials to drive revenue and reduce risk before a project even breaks ground. How automation and evolving software tools are reducing human error and accelerating project timelines.If you're a contractor, estimator, engineer, or project manager in the BAS space, this episode will give you insight into what’s possible with the right toolset and the right approach. You’ll walk away with new perspectives on how to enhance your current workflows and set your projects up for greater success. Listen in to discover how the strategies discussed can impact your business.
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The refrigerant landscape is changing fast, and if you're in building automation, facility management, or HVAC, you need to stay ahead of these shifts. In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we dive into the 2025 refrigerant regulations with Don Gillis, senior trainer at Chemours.
This isn’t just about compliance, it’s about making informed decisions that protect your equipment, your budget, and your long-term operations. If you’re responsible for maintaining or upgrading HVAC systems, this conversation will help you understand what’s coming and how to prepare.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
The key EPA regulations that took effect in 2025 and how they impact equipment manufacturing and refrigerant availability. Why refrigerant phase-downs don’t mean phase-outs, and how that affects your system choices. The new refrigerant options for different applications, including chillers, rooftop units, and split systems. How recovery and reclamation of refrigerants is about to become more valuable than ever. The best practices for A2L refrigerants and what techs need to know about safe handling, tools, and documentation.If you own, operate, or service HVAC systems, you can’t afford to miss this conversation. Get the insights you need to future-proof your business and ensure compliance without unnecessary costs.
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How well do you or your team really understand your building automation system? More importantly, how much of that knowledge actually sticks? In this episode, we focus on you, the building automation professional, and the real-world impact that training can have on system performance, efficiency, and career growth.
Effective training isn’t just about delivering information; it’s about making sure it’s understood, retained, and applied in the field. Whether you're training your internal team or your customers, the right approach can mean the difference between frustration and success.
In this episode, we explore:
The surprising truth about learning retention and how to make training stick Why different generations and learning styles require different training approaches The hidden ROI of a well-trained workforce: fewer support calls, better system performance, and stronger client relationships How to engage technicians and end users with hands-on learning, real-world scenarios, and interactive training The biggest mistakes that lead to information overload and how to avoid themIf you’ve ever struggled with training effectiveness or wondered how to build a smarter, more capable team, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover practical insights you can apply right away to enhance your training programs and improve BAS adoption.
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A Roundtable Discussion on the Future of Building Automation
In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we’re shaking things up. Join Phil Zito and all of the instructors, Matt Scott, Joe Hulsey, and Michael Roper, for a lively roundtable discussion on some of the hottest topics in building automation today.
This episode isn’t just about theories and trends - it’s about how these changes will impact you, the building automation professional. Whether you're a contractor, engineer, or technician, understanding the evolving landscape of IAQ, predictive maintenance, AI, and IP controls can give you an edge.
But here’s the catch, we’re not just here to tell you what’s happening. We’re debating it, questioning it, and breaking it down so you can stay ahead.
Key Topics Covered:
The real story behind indoor air quality solutions - what works, what doesn’t, and what’s just a sales gimmick. The future of predictive maintenance - is it really ready to replace reactive service calls? AI and automation in buildings - how close are we to a world where software writes the programs and robots handle HVAC maintenance? The shift to IP controls - what every tech needs to know to stay relevant as networks become the backbone of building automation. The workforce of the future - how today’s techs are learning differently and what companies must do to train and retain them.This episode will challenge the way you think about the industry, and you might just walk away with insights that could change your approach to building automation.
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Have you ever walked into a building and felt too hot, too cold, or just plain uncomfortable even though the HVAC system is running? If so, the problem might not be the thermostat but the way the system was designed. In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, our instructors, Joe & Matt, break down what HVAC load calculations are, why they matter, and how they impact comfort, efficiency, and cost.
Whether you work in building automation, HVAC design, or facility management, understanding load calculations is key. This discussion will help you recognize common mistakes, ask the right questions, and optimize system performance without getting lost in the math.
What You’ll Learn:
The science behind HVAC load calculations and how they shape building performance Why oversizing and undersizing HVAC equipment can create big problems How occupancy, lighting, and air changes impact system design The role of ASHRAE standards in ensuring efficiency and comfort Practical strategies for improving energy efficiency while maintaining indoor air qualityIf you are serious about optimizing HVAC systems and building performance, you will not want to miss it. Tune in and gain the insights to keep your buildings running at peak efficiency.
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You’ve recruited fresh talent into your building automation business, now what? How do you take green hires and transform them into field-ready technicians who add value fast? The challenge isn't just hiring - it's training, mentoring, and setting them up for success without wasting time or resources.
In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we dive into the step-by-step process of turning new recruits into confident, capable techs. You’ll explore different approaches to training, the role of mentorship, and how to strike the right balance between guidance and independence.
Key Topics Covered:
The critical first step to assessing new hires before investing in training Why technical knowledge alone isn’t enough and what else they need to succeed How to structure a mentorship program that actually accelerates learning The secret to getting new hires job-ready in weeks, not years Common mistakes that slow down a recruit’s progress and how to avoid themIf you’re looking to scale your workforce efficiently and build a team of high-performing techs, this episode is a must-listen.
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Are you struggling to find skilled technicians to keep your HVAC workforce strong? You’re not alone. The labor shortage is real, but the good news is that there are proven ways to keep your pipeline full and your team growing. In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we dive into the workforce challenges in the HVAC industry and explore strategies to help you recruit, train, and retain top talent.
If your business has ever faced the frustration of turning down jobs, struggling with inexperienced hires, or losing great employees, this episode is for you. We’re not just talking about the problem. We’re showing you the mindset shift and recruitment strategies that successful companies are using to keep their workforce strong.
Here’s what you’ll gain from tuning in:
✅ The real reason HVAC companies struggle to find and keep skilled workers and what you can do differently
✅ How to build a steady pipeline of new technicians who are eager to learn and stay with your company
✅ The surprising advantage of hiring inexperienced workers (and how to train them right)
✅ Why HVAC recruiting isn’t just about job postings. It’s about relationships and visibility
✅ The culture shifts that will make your company a magnet for top talentThe HVAC labor shortage isn’t going away, but companies that adapt will thrive. Don’t let your business fall behind - take control of your recruiting strategy.
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