UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program workshop to educate businesses about how to save money by becoming more energy efficient has been postponed due to impending weather. The all-day Facility Operations Workshop, originally set for March 14, has been rescheduled to take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 27, at the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center.
The workshop is open to building operators, energy and facility managers, engineers, and HVAC technicians who are interested in earning Building Operator Certification maintenance points and building re-tuning training. Denise Bechdel, environment and energy team lead, said attendees will gain essential skills and expertise in energy efficient building maintenance.
“Participants will be able to network with peers to discuss relevant issues when trying to implement energy efficiency projects and update older buildings,” Bechdel said. “They will acquire insight on new technologies and best management practices pertaining to lighting, HVAC systems, and building automation.”
Walt Dinda, energy program specialist for the Office of Pollution Prevention and Energy Assistance from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, will give the keynote address.
Attendees will also get a chance to hear from building operators who have implemented some of the practices that will be discussed at the workshop. Michael Wetzel, director of buildings and grounds for Brandywine Heights Area School District, will be talking about upgrades.
“In my presentation, I will be sharing some examples of upgrades with LED lighting, florescent lighting, and energy management strategy changes completed within my school district,” Wetzel said.
He said he recommends the workshop and Building Operator Certification program to anyone in a facility management role.
“The BOC program teaches you to look at all aspects, no matter the size or scope of the project,” Wetzel said. “There is great benefit, even to a seasoned facilities person.”
The cost is $25 per person. To register, visit PennTAP online.