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

Episode Description: Join Phil Zito in Episode 460 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast as he continues the technician onboarding series, focusing on Building Automation System (BAS) input types. Following a general introduction to BAS, Phil delves into the specifics of input types, output types, and the various tiers of BAS architecture. This episode is essential for new technicians and those looking to deepen their understanding of how building automation systems monitor and control building environments. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights, Phil explains the differences between physical and logical inputs, the process of selecting appropriate sensors and devices, and the significance of understanding specifications. Episode Highlights: BAS Input Types Unveiled: Discover the differences between physical and logical inputs in BAS and the roles they play in system functionality. Sensor Selection Process: Learn how to read specifications and identify the necessary sensors and devices for BAS applications, enhancing your skillset in equipment selection. Introduction to Physical Inputs: Phil breaks down the most common physical inputs—resistive, voltage, current, contact, and pulse inputs—providing examples and their applications within BAS. Logical Inputs Explained: Gain insight into logical inputs, including writable and non-writable types, and understand how they impact system programming and operations. Practical Application and Specifications: Through real-world examples and a walkthrough of reading a specification, Phil demonstrates how to translate theoretical knowledge into practical application. Future Learning Path: Phil outlines the upcoming topics in the series, including output types, controller types, communication buses, and more, setting the stage for comprehensive BAS learning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone starting their journey in building automation or seeking to refine their technical skills. Through detailed explanations and practical examples, Phil Zito provides listeners with the tools needed to understand and work with BAS input types, paving the way for future episodes that will explore the depths of building automation systems. Tune in to enhance your understanding of BAS and prepare for the continued learning journey in subsequent episodes.

Episode Description: Dive into the intricacies of Building Automation System (BAS) operational structures with Phil Zito in Episode 459 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This episode is a crucial part of our ongoing business series focused on the management side of BAS, designed for P&L holders, business owners, and anyone involved in the operational aspect of building automation. Phil breaks down common team structures within the BAS industry, including construction, service, and facility operations, and discusses the key roles, processes, and growth strategies for each. Whether you're scaling a new BAS business or refining the operational efficiencies of an existing one, this episode provides valuable insights into organizing your team for optimal performance. Episode Highlights: BAS Team Structures Explained: Learn about the three primary structures in BAS operations - construction, service, and facility operations - and the specific roles and responsibilities within each. Growth and Structure Strategy: Discover how to identify the right structure for your business based on current size and projected growth, focusing on the evolution from technical leads to specialized roles. Role Deep Dive: Phil provides an in-depth look at the significance of technical leads, designers, programmers, project leads, and admins within the construction structure, offering insights on when and how to expand your team effectively. Service Structure Unpacked: Understand the nuances of service operations in BAS, including the roles of service techs, retrofit techs, service leads, and the crucial function of service admin for dispatch and coordination. Facility Operations Framework: Explore the operational side for facility owners, detailing the transition from operators to engineers and the importance of a construction lead in new building projects. Processes for Success: Gain clarity on essential processes based on your chosen operational structure and learn strategies to offload tasks efficiently to scale your business or department. Join Phil as he navigates the complexities of building a cohesive and effective BAS team. Whether you're at the helm of a burgeoning controls department or steering facility operations, this episode arms you with the knowledge to structure your team for success and scale your operations with confidence.

Episode Description: In this foundational episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Phil Zito launches a vital series dedicated to teaching building automation from the ground up, perfect for new entrants to the field. Episode 458 serves as the gateway, introducing the very basics of Building Automation Systems (BAS), the architecture of such systems, and the crucial components that make up a BAS. Through detailed explanations and visual aids, this episode aims to demystify the core aspects of building automation, including inputs and outputs, controllers, and the significance of visualization in managing complex building systems. Whether you're a new employee seeking to grasp the BAS industry or an employer looking to onboard fresh talent effectively, this series promises to be an indispensable resource. Episode Highlights: BAS Overview: A high-level introduction to Building Automation Systems, explaining their purpose and how they've evolved from electromechanical and analog systems to digital controls. Key Components: Insight into the basic components of a BAS, including inputs, outputs, controllers, and supervisory devices, and how they interact to automate building functions. Architecture Explained: Simplifying the three-tier architecture of BAS, detailing how data moves from field devices to the operator's interface for actionable insights. Visualization and Control: Discussing the role of supervisory devices and software in visualizing and managing building systems, highlighting the shift to web-based interfaces for remote management. Educational Approach: Phil Zito outlines the series' structure, focusing on foundational knowledge before progressing to more complex concepts and applications in building automation. Join us every Wednesday at 10 am Arizona time for live sessions, where you can engage, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of building automation systems. This series is designed to build a strong foundation for those new to the BAS field, offering a step-by-step guide to mastering the basics and beyond.

Episode Description: Join Phil Zito in Episode 457 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast as he delves into the critical role of mentoring in developing Building Automation System (BAS) employees. This episode is a part of our ongoing series on BAS management, focusing on cultivating soft skills, understanding finance, and enhancing sales through mentoring. Phil, leveraging his extensive experience in mentoring and running a successful training business, offers a fresh perspective on accelerating the growth of technical and sales professionals in the BAS industry. Key Topics Covered: Talent Crisis in Building Automation: An overview of the current demand for skilled workers in construction and manufacturing, emphasizing the need for 1.2 million new workers by 2029. Traditional Development Models: A critique of conventional onboarding and mentoring programs, highlighting their inadequacies in addressing the rapid need for skilled BAS professionals. Quantitative Mentoring Approach: Introduction to a data-driven mentoring strategy that emphasizes measurable progress and competency-based assessments to fast-track employee development. Bloom's Taxonomy in Mentoring: Application of Bloom's Taxonomy to structure the mentoring process, ensuring a clear progression from basic knowledge acquisition to the application and beyond. Implementing the Model: Practical steps for incorporating a quantitative mentoring model within your organization, including setting SMART goals, assessing competencies, and adapting mentoring techniques to individual needs. Overcoming Challenges: Discussion on common obstacles in mentoring BAS employees and strategies to overcome them, ensuring a successful developmental journey for both mentors and mentees. Episode Highlights: Phil shares insights into the critical talent shortage facing the BAS industry and the importance of innovative mentoring approaches to bridge the gap. Explore a structured, measurable methodology to mentorship that moves beyond traditional models, fostering rapid skill acquisition and professional growth. Learn how to apply Bloom's Taxonomy to effectively mentor BAS employees, ensuring they achieve competency in their roles efficiently. Gain practical tips on implementing a quantitative mentoring model in your organization, enhancing the development of technical and sales staff.

Join Phil Zito in Episode 456 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast for an enlightening deep dive into T1L, an emerging Ethernet standard poised to revolutionize building automation systems. As we explore the technicalities and applications of T1L, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for professionals eager to understand and implement this technology in their projects. From explaining the basics of T1L to discussing practical implementation steps, Phil provides valuable insights into leveraging T1L for both retrofit and new installation projects, ensuring your building automation systems are more efficient, cost-effective, and future-proof. Episode Highlights: Introduction to T1L: Unravel the basics of T1L, an Ethernet physical layer specification under IEEE 802.3cg, offering a promising solution for extending the reach of building automation networks using single twisted-pair cables. Key Features and Benefits: Discover T1L's capability to support 10 Mbps full-duplex communication over 1 kilometer, facilitating cost-effective network expansions and leveraging existing wiring infrastructure. Operational Modes and Applications: Learn about T1L's operational modes, VPP voltage levels, and how they cater to different network requirements, alongside exploring T1L's suitability for various building automation protocols like BACnet IP, LonWorks, and Modbus RTU. Technical Deep Dive: Dive into the technical aspects of T1L, including the importance of impedance matching, the role of PHY transceivers, receivers, and gateways in a T1L setup, and how these components work together to ensure efficient data transmission. Implementing T1L in Projects: Gain practical insights into assessing existing infrastructure for T1L compatibility, planning network architecture, upgrading devices, and configuring network settings to successfully implement T1L in your projects. Interactive Learning: Phil encourages listeners to engage with questions and share their thoughts on T1L's impact on the building automation industry, fostering an interactive learning environment. Whether you're looking to enhance your knowledge on cutting-edge Ethernet standards or seeking practical advice on implementing T1L in your building automation projects, Episode 456 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast is an invaluable resource. Dive into the world of T1L with Phil Zito and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving field of building automation.

Explore the journey of BAS management and ownership with Phil Zito in Episode 455 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This episode kicks off a series focused on crucial skills for building automation leaders, spanning topics from financial acumen to operational prowess. Whether you're a manager, owner, or interested in comprehensive management practices, this series sheds light on navigating the building automation industry's complexities. Episode Highlights: Introduction to BAS Management Series: Phil introduces the series, aimed at dissecting the skills vital for successful management and ownership within the building automation sphere. Key Management Areas: Discussing critical domains such as finance, operations, sales, legal issues, marketing, business management, leadership skills, and talent management, and their significance for business prosperity. Finance for Business Growth: Insight into financial planning, reporting, understanding tax structures, financing options, and ensuring sustainable business development. Operations and Organizational Structure: Emphasizing the importance of robust operational processes, documents, and systems in effectively scaling business operations. Sales Strategy and Management: Advice on crafting a powerful sales strategy, managing sales efforts, and leveraging CRM tools to bolster business revenue. Legal and Marketing Essentials: Navigating legal challenges and the role of clear, effective marketing in boosting business visibility and reach. People and Leadership: Discussing HR policies, employee retention, and the leadership qualities essential for fostering a positive and productive workplace. Embark on this insightful journey with Phil Zito into managing and owning a building automation system business. This foundational episode sets the stage for the series, offering invaluable insights for professionals aspiring to thrive in the BAS industry.

Join Phil Zito in Episode 454 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast as we delve into the intricacies of Building Automation System (BAS) Project Management. Unlike traditional construction project management, BAS project management brings its own set of challenges and skills. This episode not only highlights the differences but also categorizes BAS project management into four distinct buckets: new construction under a subcontractor, new construction owner-direct, and retrofit owner-direct, each with its unique demands. Episode Highlights: Phil outlines the essential qualities of a BAS project manager and emphasizes the importance of treating each project as its own profit and loss center to ensure financial success. Discover the pivotal stages of the BAS project management process, including the sales to operations handoff, project kickoff meetings, subcontractor agreements, labor assignments, and the critical role of submittal creation and submission. Gain insights into the importance of a well-orchestrated project kickoff process for setting the stage for project success, including ensuring clear communication between sales and operations to avoid costly misunderstandings. Learn about the vital process of scope management, including the use of scope matrices, RFIs, and RFCs to ensure all project aspects are clearly defined and agreed upon. Phil discusses the nuances of labor, material, and subcontractor management within the BAS industry, offering strategies for effectively managing these key resources to maintain project timelines and budgets. Financial management is explored in depth, with Phil advocating for proactive billing and cash management practices to keep projects financially viable. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of meticulous project closeout procedures, including point-to-point checkouts, functional testing, and thorough training for the building operators to ensure a smooth handover and long-term project success. Whether you're a seasoned BAS project manager or looking to break into the field, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for managing BAS projects efficiently and profitably.

Dive into the complexities of BACnet IP with Phil Zito in Episode 453 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This episode provides a thorough examination of BACnet IP, including BBMDS (BACnet Broadcast Management Devices), Bdts (BACnet Distribution Tables), and the use of Wireshark for network analysis. Designed for those with a foundational understanding of IT concepts, this session covers the essentials of BACnet IP communications, the functionality of virtual links, and practical insights into network configurations for building automation systems. Episode Highlights: Introduction to BACnet IP: Phil sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of BACnet IP, emphasizing the episode's technical depth and encouraging live audience interaction for clarity. Understanding BACnet IP: Key concepts such as BACnet IP addressing, the role of UDP (User Datagram Protocol), and the importance of the OSI model in understanding BACnet communications are explained. BBMDS and Bdts Explained: The function of BBMDS and Bdts in extending BACnet communication across different subnets is discussed, alongside the mechanisms that enable these processes. Wireshark Analysis: Phil demonstrates how to use Wireshark for analyzing BACnet IP traffic, providing insights into reading and interpreting the data for troubleshooting and system optimization. Practical Network Configuration: The episode covers network configuration strategies, including the management of broadcast domains and the scalability of network segments, to facilitate efficient BACnet IP integration. Join Phil for this technical deep dive into BACnet IP, offering valuable knowledge for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of network communications within building automation systems. This episode is an essential listen for anyone involved in the design, implementation, or management of BAS, looking to deepen their expertise in BACnet IP.

Unravel the mysteries of IT for Building Automation Systems (BAS) with Phil Zito in Episode 452 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. Geared towards the non-technical audience in the BAS field, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide, introducing key IT concepts essential for BAS professionals. Whether you're a building owner, MEP spec designer, salesperson, or operations manager, this episode aims to equip you with a foundational understanding of computers, RAM, storage, networking, and more, tailored for effective communication with IT groups or handling BAS IT-related tasks. Episode Highlights: IT Basics for BAS: An exploration of fundamental IT components including computers, RAM, storage, and networking, essential for anyone in the building automation industry. Network Connections and Devices: Dive into network connections, understanding the role of network devices in BAS, and the significance of servers and databases in the IT infrastructure. Decoding Catalog Sheets: Learn how to interpret catalog sheets for BAS products, focusing on server requirements, networking protocols, and hardware specifications. Navigating IT Conversations: Gain confidence in discussing IT requirements for BAS deployments, including server configurations, memory, storage needs, and understanding network connectivity options. Software and Database Essentials: Phil sheds light on the importance of selecting the appropriate operating system and database software for BAS servers, including tips for ensuring compatibility and performance. Q&A Session: An interactive segment where Phil addresses listener queries, providing deeper insights into IT concepts relevant to BAS, enhancing listener understanding and application in real-world scenarios. Join Phil Zito in this enlightening session, designed to bridge the gap between BAS professionals and the world of IT. Perfect for those looking to enhance their IT literacy within the context of building automation, Episode 452 demystifies complex concepts, making IT approachable and understandable for all.

Uncover the essentials of BACnet integration in Episode 451 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast with Phil Zito. This episode is an invaluable resource for professionals embarking on BACnet integration projects, offering a comprehensive overview of BACnet protocols, communication methodologies, and practical integration strategies. Whether you're tackling a retrofit or adding new components to your building automation system, Phil's expert insights will guide you through the complexities of BACnet integration. Episode Highlights: BACnet Basics: Phil introduces BACnet as the standard protocol for building automation, explaining its role in structuring communication and defining data structures within BAS environments. Understanding BACnet Objects: Delve into the world of BACnet objects, including devices, inputs, outputs, and values. Learn about the significance of discovering device objects and the process of mapping points within a BAS. MSTP vs. IP Integration: Explore the differences between BACnet over Master-Slave/Token-Passing (MSTP) and BACnet over Internet Protocol (IP), including their application scenarios and challenges in integration processes. Integration Fundamentals: Phil provides a step-by-step guide to BACnet integration, covering essential aspects such as wiring, baud rates, MAC addresses, and device IDs, ensuring a smooth integration experience. Real-World Integration Scenarios: Gain insights into practical BACnet integration examples, including troubleshooting tips and strategies for overcoming common integration challenges. Phil Zito's expertise shines in this episode, offering listeners a deep dive into BACnet integration tailored for both novices and seasoned professionals in the building automation field. If you're looking to enhance your understanding of BACnet and improve your integration skills, Episode 451 is a must-listen, equipped with the knowledge and confidence to tackle BACnet integration projects successfully.

In Episode 450 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Phil Zito dives deep into the process of conducting site audits for building automation systems. This episode is a comprehensive guide aimed at both professionals looking to retrofit existing systems and building owners seeking to upgrade their building automation systems. Phil emphasizes that this audit focuses on assessing the system rather than energy usage, aiming to gather critical information for making informed decisions about retrofits, scheduling changes, or updates within a building automation system. Key Highlights: Understanding the Scope: The importance of meeting with the customer or evaluating your needs to understand the specific issues or goals, ensuring the audit collects relevant information. Collecting Essential Documentation: Gathering mechanical, electrical, building automation, and IT documentation is crucial. This includes equipment nameplates, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) documents, control submittals, and IP network diagrams to understand the existing infrastructure thoroughly. Building Automation System Exploration: Performing a system export to identify controllers, the system tree, logical and physical points, graphics, and program copies. This helps understand the operational scope of the BAS and identify any discrepancies between planned and actual operations. Assessing Deficiencies and Risks: Documenting deficiencies discovered during the audit, discussing these with the customer, and planning how to address them. This includes considering the project's scope, timeline, budget, and any potential risks or impacts on the building's operations. Creating a Comprehensive Report: Compiling the findings into a detailed report to guide decision-making for retrofits or upgrades. This report is a crucial tool for outlining the project scope, timeline, and budget in collaboration with the customer. The Importance of a Thorough Audit: Phil stresses the value of a detailed site audit, which can reveal risks and necessary considerations for a project, potentially extending beyond the initial scope to ensure all aspects of the BAS and related systems are adequately addressed. Join Phil Zito in this episode for an insightful discussion on conducting effective building automation system site audits, a vital process for any retrofit or upgrade project. Whether you're a professional in the field or a building owner, this episode offers valuable frameworks and strategies for assessing and planning BAS projects.

Dive into the world of Building Automation System (BAS) point objects with Phil Zito in Episode 449 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This episode is dedicated to demystifying BAS point objects, a fundamental concept for professionals in the building automation industry. Whether you're new to BAS or looking to refresh your knowledge, this episode provides valuable insights into different types of point objects, their applications, and how they interact within a BAS environment. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Point Objects: Phil begins with an overview of the basic types of point objects found in building automation systems, including Boolean, Numeric, and Enumerated objects, and their common aliases (Binary, Analog, Multistate). Deep Dive into Point Types: Explore the characteristics of Boolean (Binary), Numeric (Analog), and Enumerated (Multistate) points, including their functions, how they're used in BAS, and nuances across different BAS software. Priority Arrays Explained: Gain a clear understanding of priority arrays, a crucial concept for managing point object priorities within a BAS. Learn how priority arrays influence the behavior of BAS objects and ensure desired outcomes in automation logic. Practical Applications: Phil discusses real-world applications and scenarios where different point objects are utilized within a BAS, providing listeners with practical knowledge to apply in their daily work. Interactive Q&A: The episode includes an interactive Q&A session, where Phil addresses listeners' questions, offering further clarifications on point objects and their use in building automation systems. Join Phil Zito for this informative session on BAS point objects, designed to enhance your understanding and mastery of building automation systems. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in designing, implementing, or managing BAS, providing the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of automation with confidence.

In Episode 448 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast as he delves into the essential strategies for developing self-sufficient technicians in the building automation industry. Discover a comprehensive framework designed to minimize repeat support calls by addressing common gaps in technician training and knowledge. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Self-Sufficiency: Phil outlines what it means to be a self-sufficient technician, emphasizing the ability to execute job roles efficiently, troubleshoot effectively, and engage in problem-solving. Identifying Gaps: Learn how to pinpoint the areas where technicians frequently require support, distinguishing between individual gaps and systemic issues. Framework for Improvement: Phil introduces a four-step approach: Identify, Rectify, Track, and Validate, offering actionable advice to close knowledge gaps and enhance technician autonomy. Bloom's Taxonomy Applied: Explore the application of Bloom's Taxonomy in training, focusing on ensuring technicians remember, understand, and can apply crucial knowledge. Practical Tools and Strategies: Discover the power of intellectual shortcuts, such as checklists and work process instructions, to simplify complex tasks and foster independence. Monitoring Progress: Emphasis on the importance of tracking the effectiveness of implemented strategies and making adjustments as needed to ensure continuous improvement. Validation and Continuous Learning: Phil stresses the need to validate that technicians not only can perform tasks independently but also understand the rationale behind their actions. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on empowering your technical team, filled with insights and practical tips. Whether you're a manager looking to enhance your team's capabilities or a new technician seeking guidance, this episode promises valuable lessons on achieving self-sufficiency in the fast-paced world of building automation. #buildingautomation #techtraining #selfsufficienttechs #smartbuildings #bacnetintegration #technicalskills #workprocessimprovement #bloomtaxonomy #automationindustry #professionaldevelopment

Episode Description: Dive into the intricacies of building automation programming with Phil Zito in Episode 447 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This technical episode takes a deep dive into the art and science of writing effective building automation programs, focusing on sequences of operations, design patterns, and translating complex sequences into graphical programming interfaces. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Building Automation Programming: Phil sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of programming fundamentals, emphasizing the transition from theoretical knowledge to practical application. Understanding Sequences of Operations: Learn how to dissect and understand general sequences of operations, focusing on economizers as a primary example to illustrate the process of identifying patterns and translating them into code. Graphical vs. Line Code Programming: Phil explains the difference between graphical and line code programming, focusing on the use of graphical blocks to represent programming logic, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned professionals alike. Decoding Design Patterns: Discover the importance of design patterns in building automation programming, including comparative patterns and PID (Proportional, Integral, Derivative) patterns, and how they apply to various automation tasks. Practical Programming Demonstration: Through a live demonstration, Phil showcases the step-by-step process of writing a program, from identifying variables to implementing logic blocks and adjusting setpoints. Troubleshooting and Optimization: Insights into common programming challenges, such as understanding interlocks, utilizing Boolean logic, and the significance of loop enables for efficient PID control. Q&A and Interactive Learning: Phil addresses listener questions and emphasizes the importance of community feedback in shaping future podcast topics, particularly focusing on areas like Priority Arrays and BACnet fundamentals.

Welcome back to the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast with your host, Phil Zito, in Episode 446. After a brief hiatus, Phil dives back into the world of smart buildings, sharing his recent experiences, insights from industry trade shows, and addressing the critical issue of workforce development in building automation. This episode takes listeners on a journey through the whirlwind of trade shows like AHR, Honeywell Momentum, Niagara Summit, and Controls-Con, offering firsthand observations on industry trends, such as the surprising scarcity of analytics companies and the rise of IP controls. Phil recounts the challenges and revelations from the AHR expo, emphasizing the persistent struggle to attract talent to the building automation sector despite technological advancements. Phil engages in a candid discussion about the misconceptions surrounding building automation, highlighting the need for increased awareness and understanding of the field. He proposes an awareness campaign to illuminate the vast career opportunities within building automation, from hands-on technical roles to sales, project management, and cybersecurity. The episode also explores the looming challenge of maintaining legacy systems as seasoned professionals exit the workforce, underscoring the urgency of knowledge transfer and system upgrades. Phil shares insights into the essential skills needed across different roles in the industry, from installation and service to sales, emphasizing the adaptability and varied pathways available to newcomers. Listeners are encouraged to participate in spreading the word about building automation, leveraging the episode's insights to guide conversations with potential entrants into the field. Whether you're a seasoned professional, someone curious about starting a career in building automation, or anywhere in between, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the state of the industry, the critical need for talent, and the exciting future of smart buildings. Join Phil as he breaks down complex topics into accessible insights, advocates for a broader understanding of building automation, and calls on the community to welcome new talent into this dynamic and essential industry. Episode Highlights: Recap of trade show experiences and industry trends. Discussion on workforce development challenges in building automation. Insights into misconceptions about the field and strategies for raising awareness. Overview of career paths and skills needed in building automation. Encouragement for industry veterans and newcomers to collaborate in fostering growth and innovation. Don't forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share if you find value in this episode

In this insightful episode of the Smart Buildings Academy podcast, Chief Talent Officer Rachel Zito sits down with the Academy's visionary founder and CEO, Phil Zito, for a deep dive into his entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of the Smart Buildings Academy (SBA). Episode Highlights: Kick off: The Journey Unveiled - Phil shares his motivations behind opening up about his journey and what he hopes listeners will gain from this episode. SBA History: From Concept to Reality - Discover the initial vision Phil had for SBA, the anticipated and unanticipated challenges faced, and how the business has transformed from its inception. Personal Skills: Growth Beyond Business - Phil reflects on his personal transformation since starting SBA, discussing unexpected skills developed as an entrepreneur and how a particular failure catalyzed significant personal growth. Culture: The Backbone of Strategy - Understand the critical role of company culture in SBA's strategy, including insights on how Rachel's therapy background has influenced their business approach. Reflection: Lessons Learned - Phil looks back to see if there's anything he would have done differently and shares insights on how he balances work and personal life, including how this balance has evolved. Future: Vision for SBA - Phil outlines his vision for SBA over the next 5 years and discusses the implications for his personal development. Join us for this engaging and revealing conversation, offering a unique glimpse into the heart and mind of a leader who's shaping the future of the smart buildings industry. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply interested in the dynamic world of smart buildings, this episode promises to inspire and inform.

In this enlightening episode of the Smart Buildings Academy podcast, we were joined by Phil Zito, CEO of Smart Buildings Academy. Together, we explored the critical aspects of creating effective training programs in the building automation industry. Episode Highlights: Insider Insights: Phil shares his valuable experience and knowledge on developing impactful training programs. The Hidden Costs: Unveil the often unseen expenses involved in creating comprehensive training materials. Quality Matters: Learn about the importance of maintaining high standards in training content production. Measuring Success: Discover effective strategies for evaluating training outcomes. Trainer's Toolkit: Uncover the essential skills needed to be a successful training provider in today’s market. This episode is a treasure trove of information for industry leaders and those passionate about professional development. Whether you are considering developing your own training initiatives or simply interested in the process, this episode has something for you.

In this insightful episode of SBA 443, we dive deep into the intricacies of building and managing a Remote Operations Center (ROC) specifically designed for building automation teams. Our discussion is grounded in the practical experiences and successes of SBA in this field, offering listeners a blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world application. We begin by defining what a Remote Operations Center is and its significance in the realm of building automation. The episode highlights the key benefits of adopting an ROC, including cost efficiency, improved control, and scalability. The conversation then shifts to the core elements of designing an ROC. We discuss the essential infrastructure requirements, focusing on the necessary hardware and software components. The technology stack is explored in detail, providing insights into selecting the right technologies that ensure operational efficiency and security. Understanding the importance of human resources in managing an ROC, we delve into the staffing requirements, highlighting the vital roles, skills, and training needed to build a competent team. Operational processes form another critical part of the discussion, where we talk about establishing efficient workflows, regular system maintenance, and emergency handling protocols. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to how these services can be effectively positioned to clients. We share strategies for understanding client needs, customizing solutions, and marketing these services to potential clients. Real-world case studies from SBA's past projects are discussed, offering listeners valuable lessons and best practices derived from actual implementations. These anecdotes not only illustrate the challenges faced but also the successes achieved, providing a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to implement and manage a successful ROC. We wrap up the episode with a forward-looking perspective, discussing future trends in ROC for building automation, followed by a Q&A session addressing listener-submitted questions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in or currently working in building automation, providing a rich source of knowledge and practical advice on building and managing an effective Remote Operations Center.

🎧 Dive into the dynamic world of building automation with Phil Zito in our latest podcast episode "SBA 442: Ask Me Anything"! Phil, an acclaimed expert in the field, opens the floor to listeners, answering questions on a wide array of topics. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights. In This Episode, You'll Discover: Sales Strategies: Uncover effective techniques to enhance your building automation sales. Project Management: Learn how to navigate the complexities of managing successful projects. Technical Deep-Dives: Get the lowdown on the technical aspects of building automation systems. Leadership & Hiring: Find out what it takes to build, lead, and inspire a top-performing team. Training & Career Growth: Gain practical tips for personal development and professional advancement in the building automation industry. Phil answers questions ranging from beginner basics to intricate technical details, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience. His engaging style and practical advice make this a must-listen episode for anyone aiming to excel in the world of building automation. 🔔 Don't forget to Subscribe! Stay connected and keep up with our series for more expert insights, tips, and engaging discussions. Your road to mastering building automation starts here!

In episode SBA 441, we're joined by Derek Wright from D&L Controls, who offers an intimate look into the journey of his organization. From its humble beginnings to the present, and aspirations for the next two years, Derek gives listeners a roadmap of D&L's evolution. Hiring practices take center stage as he reveals what qualities stand out in potential candidates, followed by an engaging discussion on preserving company culture amidst rapid growth. The episode doesn't shy away from challenges; Derek delves deep into the biggest hurdles D&L faces and their strategies for overcoming them. He also shines a spotlight on the immense growth opportunities for contractors in the building automation sector. As we venture further, technology emerges as a double-edged sword, proving both beneficial and cumbersome for D&L over the past year and a half. Partnerships, their significance, and their impact on business dynamics are also addressed. Rounding off the episode, Derek shares insights on one of the most delicate balancing acts in the contracting business: ensuring robust growth without overstepping into undue risks. For budding contractors, industry veterans, and everyone in between, this episode promises a blend of experiences, challenges, and invaluable advice. Tune in!