This spring, NPC was awarded an unexpectedly large project consisting of hotel energy audits across the country. With not quite enough personnel on hand and a son, Orrie Friend, studying engineering at Ohio University, Director of Energy Engineering Services Rusty Friend knew exactly how to solve the temporary staffing problem. He “recruited” the sophomore mechanical engineering major for a coast-to-coast road trip and immersion in the energy audit process. It was an opportunity that was impossible to refuse: a chance to learn from the best in the business – Dad!
According to Rusty, there was a bit of father-son time shared during the trip, including a stop in Arizona to watch a Cincinnati Reds spring training game. However, there were many more hours of Orrie driving while Rusty tapped away at his laptop, writing reports. At each hotel Orrie’s responsibilities increased as he became more capable – with documenting equipment and calculating the efficiency of lighting, plumbing, HVAC in common and guest spaces, and tricky spots like kitchens and laundries. Together, the pair completed 30 ASHRAE Level II energy audits over the course of 26 weeks.
NPC was pleased to be able to provide this opportunity to an aspiring engineer. We wish Orrie well in his career, no matter what direction in engineering he chooses once he graduates.