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change discussion , we find common ground in energy efficiency . Saving energy resonates with everyone because it directly ties to budget discussions .
Host : In your speech , you highlighted being a child of the ' 70s and the energy crisis during that time . Can you share more about your memories of that period and ASHRAE ' s role in addressing the energy crisis ?
Scoggins : Growing up in Tennessee during the ' 70s , I remember not being allowed to turn on our air conditioning , emphasising a concern about spending too much time in air-conditioned environments . Interestingly , we ' ve come full circle , given our reliance on air conditioning today .
Host : You mentioned the significant change in how people interact with buildings , especially during the Covid-19 pandemic . How did this shift impact the energy use in commercial buildings ?
Scoggins : While I haven ' t crunched the numbers , it ' s likely that there was a reduction in energy use in commercial buildings during the pandemic due to reduced occupancy . However , it ' s crucial to note that in certain regions , such as the southern US states , systems couldn ' t be entirely turned off due to concerns like mould . What we observed more prominently was a shift in the type of projects . Many new commercial building projects were cancelled , leading to a greater emphasis on renovating and retrofitting existing buildings . Owners focused on improving indoor air quality to reassure occupants , whether they were office workers or students , about the safety of returning to these spaces .
Host : You previously discussed the ASHRAE headquarters project during the start of the pandemic . How did the pandemic impact this project , and what measures were taken to ensure safety ?
Scoggins : The ASHRAE headquarters project faced its share of challenges with the onset of Covid-19 . Despite starting
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construction in late 2019 and facing the pandemic in March 2020 , we managed to complete the project . The construction team diligently adhered to safety protocols , including testing stations , handwashing stations and mask mandates . Fortunately , the building ' s ventilation system , utilising dedicated outdoor air units , minimised recirculated air , addressing concerns related to the spread of airborne particles .
Host : ASHRAE released Standard 241 on pathogen mitigation last year . How does this standard contribute to indoor air quality , and how quickly was it developed ?
Scoggins : Standard 241 is a valuable tool for assessing indoor air quality conditions in buildings , particularly in the context of pathogen mitigation . ASHRAE responded swiftly to the need for such a standard . This standard serves as a critical resource for evaluating and maintaining indoor air quality , especially in the face of ongoing concerns about airborne viruses .
Host : Reflecting on your extensive experience in the industry , starting in the ' 80s , how have you witnessed the evolution of technology , particularly in the realm of design and engineering ?
Scoggins : The pace of technological change has been remarkable . When I began my career , we used drawing boards for designs , and then CAD quickly took over , followed by more recent advancements like Revit . Everything has become faster , with less time for design but increased efficiency through available software . However , on a different note , as a female in the industry , the demographics haven ' t shifted significantly in my region . Urban areas tend to have more women in the field compared to rural or suburban areas . In discussions at recent events , some young women shared varying percentages of female representation in their graduating classes , highlighting the need for continued efforts to encourage diversity in the field .
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Host : It ' s interesting to hear your perspective on the evolving landscape of architectural engineering , particularly in attracting more women . Can you elaborate on how the introduction of architectural engineering curricula has influenced gender diversity in the field ?
Scoggins : The architectural engineering curriculum has played a pivotal role in attracting more women to the industry . Unlike traditional mechanical engineering degrees , which may be perceived as primarily focused on designing cars , architectural engineering offers a broader range of opportunities . This shift in perception has been instrumental in increasing the interest of women in our field . The curriculum showcases the diverse applications of mechanical engineering , and I believe it has significantly contributed to drawing more women into our industry .
Host : Working closely with architects , do you notice a distinct approach or mindset that sets them apart from engineers during collaborative processes ?
Scoggins : Indeed , architects and engineers often bring different mindsets to the table . While some architects possess an engineering mindset , many lean towards creative and out-of-the-box thinking . Engineers , on the other hand , tend to thrive within defined parameters and solutions . It can be a challenge for engineers to break free from traditional boxes when collaborating with particularly creative architects . The key is finding a balance that aligns with the project ' s objectives and satisfies both creative and practical considerations .
Host : Considering your extensive involvement with ASHRAE , from serving as the past chair of the headquarters committee to being an admitted delegate for COP 26 , have you had to actively work on your diplomacy skills ?
Scoggins : Diplomacy is an essential skill honed over the years in ASHRAE . Whether
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at the chapter level or society committees , achieving consensus is fundamental . As you progress in ASHRAE , you learn to navigate differing opinions and guide discussions towards a shared understanding . By the time you reach the role of ASHRAE president , your diplomacy skills should be well-developed from years of collaborative efforts .
Host : What advice would you offer to incoming ASHRAE presidents ?
Scoggins : Incoming presidents need to start early in their preparation , ideally even before their official term begins . Focused goals and a clear plan are crucial for a successful year . The ability to drive consensus and address industry challenges requires diligence and preparation . I have confidence in the incoming presidents ' capabilities and expect them to bring their unique focuses to the forefront .
Host : As we wrap up , do you have any parting words or reflections on your ASHRAE journey ?
Scoggins : ASHRAE provides a platform for impactful discussions and collaborations . My hope is that the focus on decarbonisation and addressing climate change remains prominent even beyond my term . These challenges are persistent and will shape our industry for years to come . CLA
Everything has
become faster , with
less time for design but
increased efficiency
through available
software .
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