Presidents Message
by Phil Knowlton, P.E.
As the 2009-2010 ASHRAE season is underway, the CT Chapter has as much to be thankful for as
we have to look forward to! First, I want to thank Matt Mullen for his leadership as President
through the past year. It seemed as though Matt was everywhere, lending a hand wherever he
could. Thank you, Matt: you have been and remain an invaluable resource to the Chapter. There
are so many other officers, governors and committee chairs who have provided expertise and
assistance that I’d more than likely leave someone out of any list I try to include! You know who
you are, others in the Chapter know who you are; please know that your diligence has been truly
appreciated. I look forward to working with you all in the next year.
Our meetings for 2009 – 10 have been filled with dinner speakers of interest to all as have our Tech
Sessions.. As an example, our October Tech Session speaker for Student Night covers Searching
for a Job, a topic not just for students. In these economic times, we can all appreciate the tips
Shadie Jalil will offer. That is followed by Allen Sawyer’s dinner presentation of Industry Trends
and Career Opportunities. The October meeting will also feature an official visit from Rich
Vehlow, Region I Vice Chair for Student Activities. Rich will help us to recognize our new
University of Hartford Student Chapter. We are looking forward to the establishment of additional
Student Chapters in our area.
In March, we hope to have an off site meeting at the Connecticut Science Center. In May, we will
hold President’s Night and History Night. That combined event will see two ASHRAE
DISTINGUISHED LECTURERS (our second and third of the year). And this year, Barry
McGuiness is the official Chair of the Annual CT Chapter Golf Outing. Unfortunately, there is no
speaker scheduled for the golf course…but Barry promises lots of fun! I also want to thank Keith
Sweitzer for his years heading up the Golf Outing.
Start planning now to attend next year’s CRC. It will be held in beautiful Finger Lakes village of
Watkins Glen, NY. The Finger Lakes have been one of the Top 10 Lakeside Resorts in the
country. With water activities, winery tours, and auto racing among other fun, this CRC shouldn’t
be missed. In case the Watkins Glen Auto Course excites you, you can even take three laps of the
course in your own car (preferably not when the NASCAR or sports car classes are running)!