AEC Science & Technology Supports HR5112, “Federal Building Personnel Training Act”

Members

Re: Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010

Dear Members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee:

As the leading organizations involved in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings, we applaud Congress’s continued efforts to improve our nation’s buildings. We are particularly pleased to support H.R.5112, “Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010.”

As you know, Congress and the President have established stringent goals for Federal agencies to achieve reductions in energy and water use and greenhouse gas emissions. Agencies also have additional needs related to other high-performance building attributes, including safety and security. Achieving these goals requires personnel engaged in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of federal buildings to have the appropriate skills and training. This bill will provide federal agencies with these necessary tools.

Federal agencies have long been looked to as an example of what can be done within the built environment. As the nation’s largest holder of real estate, the federal government has the opportunity and resources to influence the development and implementation of building design, construction, operations and maintenance tools, technologies and practices. Federal buildings should serve as public showcases and leading examples of energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) through their design, construction, equipment, and operations and maintenance.

As both public and private sector buildings become increasingly complex to meet our nation’s energy and environmental goals, personnel with the necessary competencies will be critical to achieving these goals. The undersigned organizations representing the breadth of the building community including building professionals, manufacturers, and small businesses, are pleased to support this legislation and are poised to provide the necessary training to achieve both public and private sector goals.

We look forward to continued work with you in realizing the full potential of high-performance buildings.

Sincerely,

National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

International Facility Management Association (IFMA)

National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)

U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)