Here is the first TLDR summary of our education sessions at AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando . Our first session, “Scaling Up: The Next Wave of Building Automation,” reflected on the industry’s accelerating shift towards smarter, more sustainable, and interconnected building systems. Insights from industry veterans like Ken Sinclair, Scott Cochrane, Brad White, and other experts: this session explores the transformative trends shaping the future of building automation.
Ken Sinclair (Founder, AutomatedBuildings.com):
Kicked off the discussion by emphasizing the importance of adaptability. In their view, innovation isn’t just about adopting the latest tools; it’s about creating a culture where people and processes evolve together. He shared a compelling case study on how their organization leveraged AI to streamline operations, demonstrating the power of technology when paired with the right strategy.
- The Evolution and Revolution of Building Automation: Ken traces the industry’s journey from pneumatics to DDC, the internet, and now the cloud, emphasizing the constant evolution and occasional revolutions that have shaped building automation.
- AI and the Edge: He highlights the importance of AI, not just in the cloud but at the edge, close to the real-time data generated by building systems.
- New Business Models: Ken predicts a shift towards subscription-based services, such as “comfort as a service,” driven by AI and cloud technologies.
- Call to Action: He urges attendees to embrace change, learn from the sessions, and apply the knowledge to their projects and businesses.
Quotable Moment: “Innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s about people and processes working together“
Scott Cochrane (President, Cochrane Supply & Engineering):
Scott echoed this sentiment but focused on the customer. He argued that businesses must prioritize customer needs above all else, citing examples of companies that failed to do so and fell behind. Their advice? Use data analytics to gain deeper insights into customer behavior and tailor solutions accordingly.
- Mega Trends: Scott identifies three major trends impacting BAS: the shift to IP-based devices, the increasing importance of cybersecurity, and the rise of AI and big data.
- The Changing Landscape: He emphasizes how these trends are fundamentally changing the design and implementation of BAS systems, requiring new skills and approaches.
- Opportunities for the Industry: Scott sees these challenges as opportunities for the industry to reinvent itself and for companies to differentiate themselves by embracing new technologies and best practices.
Quotable Moment: “If you’re not putting the customer at the heart of your strategy, you’re already behind.”
Kerri Sinclair (Editorial Board, AutomatedBuildings.com):
Kerri focused on the evolution of Automated Buildings and the importance of collaboration, inclusivity, and open-source technologies in driving the industry forward. She emphasized the need to adapt to new challenges, such as AI and cybersecurity, by fostering a community of diverse voices. Their vision for the future involves expanding the magazine’s role as a trusted resource and platform for meaningful dialogue, ensuring the industry remains innovative and resilient in the face of rapid change.
- Continuing the Legacy: Kerri discusses her role in carrying forward the AutomatedBuildings.com legacy and ensuring the platform remains relevant for the next generation of professionals.
- Building a Collaborative Community: She emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and bringing diverse voices together to address the industry’s complex challenges.
- Open Source and the Future: She highlights the potential of open-source technologies, like Linux, in shaping the future of building automation.
- Quotable Moment:
“The future is about inviting more people to the conversation, not excluding them. We need smart minds to navigate the challenges ahead.”
Brad White (President, SES Consulting):
Looking ahead, Brad painted a vivid picture of the future, highlighting trends like automation and personalized experiences. He also stressed the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning, encouraging leaders to view failure not as a setback but as an opportunity to grow.
- The Importance of Controls: Brad emphasizes the crucial role of controls in achieving energy efficiency and realizing the potential of sustainable building technologies.
- Embracing Innovation: He shares his experience with AI tools like ChatGPT, highlighting the productivity gains and staff engagement that can result from embracing innovation.
- Connecting the Dots: Brad connects the benefits of innovation to improved client satisfaction and business success, urging attendees to invest time in exploring new technologies.
Quotable Moment:
“The only way to stay ahead is to keep learning—every day, every week, every year.”
A Call to Action
The panel concluded with a powerful message: innovation is a team sport. Whether it’s through cross-functional collaboration or industry partnerships, working together is the key to unlocking new possibilities.
Watch the session here!
