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

SBA 500: The History of Smart Buildings Academy

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 education Discover what it takes to lead, adapt, and build lasting impact in the smart buildings industry.

SBA 499: The ROI of BAS Training

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.

SBA 498: The True Cost of Band-Aid Fixes in Building Operations

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 performance Listen to rethink what “just keeping it running” means and discover how to shift toward stable and efficient operations.

SBA 497: The Life Cycle of a BAS Project

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.

SBA 496: Revolutionizing HVAC – The Rise of VRF Systems

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.