ASHRAE’s First-Ever Virtual Conference Proves Success
With an initial 2,505 registered participants, accessing 92 technical sessions, live forums with speakers, leadership updates and networking events, the 2020 ASHRAE Virtual Conference is proving to be a huge success.
The 2020 ASHRAE Virtual Conference includes an on-demand program which started on June 22 and provides participants with 18-month access to 80+ pre-recorded technical sessions, including 200+ presentations. The four-day live virtual event took place June 29-July 2 and featured technical sessions addressing the latest information relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, along with other industry-related topics. Committee members also participated in meetings of technical, standards and standing committees, developing guidance for the future of the industry and ASHRAE.
Day one of the live event included a farewell message and a State of the Society address from 2019-20 ASHRAE President Darryl K. Boyce, P.Eng. Interaction and participant engagement remained high throughout the day, with technical sessions on offsite construction, grid-interactive efficient buildings and sustainable development opportunities in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
On day two of the live event, during his Secretary’s Report, Executive Vice President Jeff Littleton reported record participation in ASHRAE’s eLearning training, increased volunteer involvement and updates on ASHRAE’s new Global Headquarters.
Retiring board members were honored for their service on day three and technical sessions continue to explore how building and energy systems interact and respond to climate change challenges. The 2020-21 board and officers were also introduced.
On the final day of the conference, President Gulledge gave his address on the Society theme for the coming year, The ASHRAE Digital Lighthouse and Industry 4.0. His presidential address manuscript, presentation and video can be found at ashrae.org/president.
All technical sessions are now available on-demand to registrants for the next 18 months. Registration for the 2020 ASHRAE Virtual Conference remains open for both individuals and groups at ashrae.org/2020virtual.
The 2021 ASHRAE Winter Conference and AHR Expo is scheduled to take place Jan. 23-27, 2021 in Chicago, Ill.
