When it comes to problem solving today's building services engineer must be a problem solving master.
He or she needs to have this particular skill set in abundance to cope with working in multi-disciplinary teams. This is a job title that requires a rational mind to process logistics while still having enough creative flair to deal with design teams and superior communication skills for a high level of client interaction.
Now that's diversity.
To juggle the demands of this job he or she should be a fountain of bright ideas because this is the person charged with actually bringing a building to life. They do a lot more than just “design, install and service the equipment and systems found in buildings” such as offices and shops.
The equipment we are referring to covers all of the essentials to make a building function such as heating, ventilation, hot and cold water systems, lighting, electrical cabling, lifts, security systems, escalators, acoustics, telecommunications networks, and the list goes on (phew).
It's fair to say that while the software and controls used in building automation are improving, its the human part of the equation that has seen the biggest changes, specifically the role of engineers. This is partly due to a renewed focus on sustainability.
With so much emphasis placed on green buildings, energy efficiency and indoor air quality, the role of building services engineers has been elevated to a whole new level. Best of all, it means having much more influence on a building's development.
Today the building services engineer is involved from the very early stages of the project, he or she is not simply there to install services allocated by an architect. This new sphere of influence is a great opportunity for our industry to really make a difference.
In fact award winning AECOM engineer Michael Li explains how engineers are actually making this happen (turn to page 34 of the March edition of CCN Magazine). While compiling the building automation feature (which is one of the biggest ever) I couldn't help but notice how much everyone is striving for sustainable excellence and how much activity this segment of the industry generates.
In fact the high level of interest has led to a second feature on this very topic being included in the July edition of the magazine. So if you missed out this time, get involved next time by meeting the next deadline is mid-May. It's your chance to bring your building to life within the pages of CCN Magazine by submitting editorial.
Is the role of building services engineer changing? Share your bright ideas with sandravandijk@yaffa.com.au