In a display of successful public/private entity collaboration, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), an organization dedicated to the academic and professional success of African-American engineering students and professionals, and Johnson Controls, a provider of solutions that increase energy efficiency in buildings, have announced a partnership designed to advance the environmental goals of both organizations and support future employment opportunities for diverse engineering talent.
The project will further the NSBE’s already established sustainability efforts, with Johnson Controls overseeing the implementation of energy efficient technologies at the NSBE headquarters in Alexandria, VA, which will result in an anticipated 28% energy savings. The alliance will also create a source of strong engineering candidates for Johnson Controls recruitment, underscoring the company’s commitment to diversity.
“Energy efficiency has always been a key priority for NSBE, and this partnership provides a solid platform to expand on our environmental goals, while furthering our mission to support African-American students and professionals,” said Dr. Carl B. Mack, executive director, NSBE. “We are looking forward to further reducing our carbon footprint and are excited to highlight career opportunities with Johnson Controls.”
“At Johnson Controls, we value a highly exceptional and diverse workforce as essential to providing our customers with comfortable, safe, and sustainable environments,” said Bruno Biasiotta, vice president and general manager, Energy Solutions Americas, Johnson Controls. “The opportunity to align our businesses on two levels – employment and energy efficiency – demonstrates how non-profit and private organizations can work together to make a positive impact on the environment and economy.”
Facility enhancements at the NSBE headquarters will help to make the building a model of energy efficiency; a new building automation system will reduce operating and energy expenses. Additionally, the NSBE headquarters will host a solar photovoltaic rooftop array donated by SolarWorld Americas. The solar array is expected to generate 12% of the headquarters’ total energy needs.
“SolarWorld is proud to partner with Johnson Controls in making the National Society of Black Engineers’ head office an example of energy efficiency,” said Kevin Kilkelly, president, SolarWorld Americas. “NSBE’s members represent the renewable energy industry’s next generation of leaders and innovators. What better place to demonstrate the benefits of solar technology.”
The energy program, which is set to break ground in January 2012, is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 81.2 tons per year. Additionally, Johnson Controls service offerings will assist NSBE in applying for the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED® certification.
