Richard Cooper, AM.AIRAHBased out of Adelaide, Richard Cooper, AM.AIRAH, entered the HVAC&R industry by way of the mechanical electrical trade. Spending 16 years as an electrical fitter/mechanic, he joined Air Con Serve in 1996 to carry out the design and project management of mechanical services controls installations. Cooper says he is proud of his contributions to the company. In his role he has brought together an experienced team of engineers, project managers, technicians and installation teams. This has allowed for the organisation's growth in contracting and services. "Getting people working on what they like doing best, keeping humour as an important part of the work environment and ensuring good engineering – it all works toward the creation of a very motivated, happy and hard-working group," he says. "I have confidence and pride that our team will take on and complete projects to a very high standard." |
What brought you to the HVAC&R industry? In many cases, my previous mechanical electrical experience included the installation and commissioning of air conditioning building management systems. The BMS guys always seemed to be starting and commissioning the big toys in the plant rooms. With a growing interest in controls, I joined Air Con Serve and found the transition from mechanical and electrical to controls quite natural. How long have you been a member of AIRAH? I joined AIRAH on July 7, 1997. What's your favourite HVAC&R-related memory? When I first realised I was able to earn a living by reducing clients' energy bills through the installation of efficient and sustainable optimised systems. I still take pride in being contracted to install and service systems that save the client money, provide wellness, and help the environment. |
What's something everyone should know about you, your work, or the HVAC&R industry? I believe people should not get lost in only providing energy efficiencies from HVAC. Peoples’ comfort and wellness are number one. This is the main and most important service we are here to provide. If we have happy, efficient people in our offices, universities and schools, there will be greater long-term results in productivity and learning. Our best outcomes have been achieved in engineering solutions with a collaborative approach, through early involvement with clients, consulting engineers, and managing and mechanical contractors – involving all services trades. How do you see the HVAC&R industry developing over the next 100 years? Hopefully net zero energy precincts will become the norm. The introduction of clean energy from wind, solar and other renewable sources should truly enable the HVAC&R industry to concentrate on improving wellness and comfort, producing the best balance for building performance and occupant productivity all round. |
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