Jonathan Smith
HDR
4801 Main St
Kansas City , MS 64112
United States
913-544-7992
Region: IX
Honorarium: None
Languages Spoken: English
jonathansmithashrae@gmail.com
Smith

Jonathan Smith, PE, LEED AP, CEM, is the Director of Mechanical Engineering at HDR, leading a global practice of over 200 engineers. With a career span of over two decades, he has cultivated deep expertise in building automation, energy management, and HVAC systems. A dedicated ASHRAE member since 2001, he has risen through numerous leadership roles, most recently serving as a Director on the Society's Board of Directors and as the Director and Regional Chair for Region IX.

Professional Biography

Jonathan Smith is a results-oriented engineering leader with over 20 years of experience in the HVAC&R industry, specializing in building automation systems, energy engineering, and strategic business development.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska, as well as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and a LEED Accredited Professional (AP).

Currently, as the Director of Mechanical Engineering at HDR, Jonathan leads a global practice of over 200 mechanical engineers. In this role, he is responsible for driving quality initiatives, establishing best practices, developing technical expertise, and elevating the firm's industry presence through innovation and leadership.

Prior to joining HDR in 2024, Jonathan spent a significant portion of his career at Siemens Industry, Inc., where he held several key positions. As a Business Development Manager, he was instrumental in educating owners, architects, and engineers on Smart Building concepts and IoT solutions. His career at Siemens also included roles as a Building Automation Sales, Energy Engineer, and Building Automation Design Engineer, where he was responsible for everything from system design and energy calculations to sales and customer relationship management.

An active and dedicated member of ASHRAE, Jonathan has served in numerous leadership capacities at the chapter, regional, and Society levels. His service includes chairing the DEI Committee, Membership Promotion Committee, TC 9.13 Space (Extraterrestrial and Deep Space Environmental Control Systems), and TC 1.6 (Terminology), as well as serving on the Board of Directors as the Director and Regional Chair for Region IX. His technical contributions include participation in committees such as SGPC 13 (Specifying Automation Systems) and SGPC 36 (High Performance Sequence of Operations). In recognition of his commitment, he has received the ASHRAE Distinguished Service Award (2023) and the Regional Award of Merit (2023).

Topic
Beyond the Thermostat: Understanding the Foundations of Building Automation Systems
This lecture provides a fundamental understanding of Building Automation Systems (BAS), moving beyond simple temperature control. It covers the essential components, including inputs, outputs, and control signals, and explains various communication protocols like BACnet, Modbus, and LON. The session equips attendees with the foundational knowledge needed to design, operate, and optimize BAS for high-performance buildings.
ASHRAE Does What… Mastering the Art of the ASHRAE Matrix
This presentation demystifies ASHRAE's complex organizational structure. It provides a clear roadmap to understanding how technical committees, standards development, research, and educational programs interconnect to fulfill ASHRAE's mission. The session is designed to help members, both new and experienced, navigate the "ASHRAE Matrix" to maximize their impact and leadership opportunities within the Society.
The Nontraditional Engineering Career Path: Now What?
This presentation explores the modern reality that engineering careers are no longer limited to a single technical track. It delves into the reasons behind the shift toward roles in leadership, business, and advocacy, emphasizing the growing value of "soft skills." Attendees will learn practical strategies to leverage their technical expertise in these evolving professional landscapes and discover how ASHRAE supports diverse career journeys.
BACnet Secure Connect (BACnet/SC): What Is It and Why Does It Matter?
Focusing on one of the most critical issues in building management today—cybersecurity—this presentation introduces BACnet/SC as the secure future for building automation. It explains how this new protocol uses encrypted communications and modern IT standards to protect systems from cyber threats. Attendees will learn the key differences between BACnet/IP and BACnet/SC and understand the importance of adopting this evolution in building automation.