Chapter Leadership Academy
Come ready to learn about ASHRAE. Leave ready to lead within it.
Save the Date! Friday, March 12, 2027 – Saturday, March 13, 2027.
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Calling all future ASHRAE leaders! Are you or someone in your chapter interested in gaining a deeper understanding of ASHRAE and developing the leadership skills needed to make a greater impact? Chapter Leadership Academy is the opportunity for you!
Chapter Leadership Academy is designed for the next generation of ASHRAE leaders to gain a broader understanding of ASHRAE as a whole, build confidence in their leadership abilities, and develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in current and future leadership roles.
This 1.5-day leadership experience is designed to simplify the learning curve and give attendees a clearer understanding of how ASHRAE operates—from the Chapter level through the Region and Society levels.
Attendees will gain practical knowledge about ASHRAE’s organizational structure, resources, programs, and opportunities while developing leadership skills they can immediately put into practice within their chapters.
But this isn’t just about learning how ASHRAE works—it’s about learning how to lead within it.
Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, attendees will explore strategies for:
- Leading and engaging chapter volunteers
- Delegating effectively and building strong teams
- Motivating and empowering others
- Navigating common chapter leadership challenges
- Sharing ideas and best practices with fellow ASHRAE leaders
- Building the confidence and skills needed for future leadership opportunities within your Chapter
Chapter Leadership Academy is designed to address the issues that matter most to today’s emerging leaders.
A significant portion of the Academy will focus on current ASHRAE topics, real-world challenges, and issues identified by attendees themselves. Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and work together to develop solutions that can be taken back and applied within their chapters.
Some of the topics that you’ll discuss and explore are:
- Understanding ASHRAE as a Whole
Gain a better understanding of ASHRAE’s organizational structure and how the Chapter, Region, and Society levels work together.
- ASHRAE Resources & Opportunities
Discover the tools, programs, and resources available to help chapters and members succeed.
- Chapter Leadership Skills
Develop practical skills for leading volunteers, building teams, delegating responsibilities, and motivating others.
- Leadership Beyond the Chapter
Learn about opportunities to expand your involvement and prepare for potential future leadership roles within ASHRAE.
- Best Practices & Shared Experiences
Connect with fellow emerging leaders and exchange ideas, strategies, and solutions that can benefit your chapter.
- Real-World Leadership Challenges
Work collaboratively to address common challenges and develop practical approaches you can take back to your chapter.
Whether you are preparing to step into your first chapter leadership role, looking to become a more effective leader, or considering future opportunities at the Region or Society level, Chapter Leadership Academy is an opportunity to build the knowledge, skills, and connections to take your ASHRAE involvement to the next level.
Expand your understanding. Strengthen your leadership. Build your future with ASHRAE.
Meet the Presenters:
Devin Abellon, P.E. is the Director of Engineered Solutions at Pac West Sales. He has over 30 years of experience in the HVAC and plumbing industries with a focus on high-performance and sustainable building design and construction. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California at Santa Barbara and is a registered professional engineer in California and Arizona. He is an active member of ASHRAE and currently serves as a Society Vice President, Vice Chair of Technology Council, Coordinating Officer of the Planning Committee, member of Technical Committee TC6.5 (Radiant Heating and Cooling) and as a Distinguished Lecturer.
Doug Fick, PE, PMP, LEED AP BD+C, is a Principal and Mechanical Engineer at CMTA’s Indianapolis, IN office, bringing over 31 years of industry experience. He earned his bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering and mechanical engineering from Pennsylvania State University, demonstrating a strong foundation in both disciplines. As a leader in CMTA’s Indianapolis office, Doug provides strategic direction to the MEP engineering group, effectively overseeing design processes and nurturing client relationships to ensure project success. A dedicated member of ASHRAE for 31+ years, he was recently honored with an Exceptional Service Award, recognizing his unwavering commitment to the society and his contributions to advancing the industry. He currently serves as Chair of the Standards Committee, Technology Council, Chair of Standard 189.3, further demonstrating his passion for fostering professional growth and innovation within the field.
Rachel Romero is a professional engineer with more than 16 years of experience at the National Laboratory of the Rockies (formerly NREL), where she serves in the Strategic Partnerships Office advancing energy innovation. She focuses on strengthening lab partnerships that accelerate the deployment of next-generation energy technologies, especially for large loads.
With a master’s degree in building energy systems, Rachel brings together technical excellence and strategic business development to help industry and government move breakthrough technologies from the lab to the marketplace. She has led high-visibility initiatives, including the Solar Decathlon and the Smart Labs Toolkit, driving collaboration among federal agencies, private sector partners, universities, and industry leaders to promote practical, market-driven energy solutions. Rachel is known for her results-oriented leadership, strong stakeholder relationships, and commitment to ensuring American innovation translates into long-term energy leadership. Rachel has been an active member of ASHRAE for over a decade, including chairing the Young Engineers in ASHRAE (YEA) and Residential Buildings Committees.