The ASHRAE Ozarks Chapter is excited to share that we have recently joined the Salute to Design and Construction Council in Springfield, Missouri. This council brings together leaders from across the local design and construction community to celebrate the people, projects, and partnerships that shape the region’s built environment. Our first official appearance as a council member was at the recent Salute to Design and Construction Awards, a signature annual event that recognizes excellence and supports the next generation of industry professionals.
The Salute to Design and Construction Council is a collaborative group made up of organizations that represent every corner of the building industry. Member groups include contractor associations, architecture and engineering organizations, specialty trade and supplier groups, as well as partners in education and workforce development. Together, they coordinate the annual awards banquet, present industry awards, and support scholarships and outreach programs that introduce students to careers in construction, engineering, and the skilled trades. The council’s mission is to promote a positive image of the design and construction industry, highlight outstanding contributions, and invest in the future workforce.
ASHRAE Ozarks Chapter leadership was well represented at this year’s Salute event. Chapter President Ryan Jones, Past President Zach Altis, and President Elect Chris Ruth were all on hand to network with fellow council members, celebrate award recipients, and demonstrate ASHRAE’s commitment to the regional design and construction community. Their presence underscored our chapter’s desire to be an active partner in local industry initiatives, not only in the technical realm of standards and education, but also in outreach, recognition, and workforce development.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of an ASHRAE-sponsored scholarship to the Discovery Center’s Discovery School, accepted at the event by Discovery Center’s Tyler Moles. This scholarship will help support a student in need of financial assistance. The student has previously faced bullying at other schools, but has now found a safe and supportive environment to thrive at Discovery School. With its focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through hands on learning, Discovery School offers students a STEM centered educational experience that encourages curiosity, problem solving, and confidence. Supporting this scholarship aligns with ASHRAE’s values of education, opportunity, and creating better environments for people, and we were honored to share this story with the broader design and construction community at the Salute.
