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SBA 490: The Art & Science of BAS Estimating show art SBA 490: The Art & Science of BAS Estimating

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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 ...

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SBA 489: April Roundtable – Industry Insights show art SBA 489: April Roundtable – Industry Insights

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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...

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SBA 488: BAS Channel Enablement 101 with Jonathan Lewis show art SBA 488: BAS Channel Enablement 101 with Jonathan Lewis

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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,...

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SBA #487: Low Refrigerant Application with Don Gillis show art SBA #487: Low Refrigerant Application with Don Gillis

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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. ...

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SBA 486: Empowering Users of BAS Systems show art SBA 486: Empowering Users of BAS Systems

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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....

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SBA 485: BAS News Roundtable show art SBA 485: BAS News Roundtable

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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,...

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SBA 484: Breaking Down HVAC Load Calculations show art SBA 484: Breaking Down HVAC Load Calculations

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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...

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SBA 483: From A Recruit To The Battlefield show art SBA 483: From A Recruit To The Battlefield

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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...

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SBA 482: Recruiting Your HVAC Workforce show art SBA 482: Recruiting Your HVAC Workforce

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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...

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SBA 481: Equipment Damage - Part 2: Repair vs Replace show art SBA 481: Equipment Damage - Part 2: Repair vs Replace

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

When critical equipment in your building automation system is damaged, the decision to repair or replace isn't always straightforward. Making the right call can mean the difference between minimizing downtime and avoiding unnecessary costs—or dealing with ongoing failures and lost efficiency. In this episode, we break down the factors that drive this decision and provide a structured approach to evaluating your options. Join us for a discussion that will help you make smart, informed choices when your systems are on the line. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How to assess damage severity...

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More Episodes

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 training

This 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.