What is your current position? What are your areas of focus?
I am the Staff Mechanical Engineer in the Special Projects Department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. My areas of focus have included:
- Temple projects around the world
- Commercial design, construction and operations
- HVAC, VRF, VAV, Humidity Control for fine materials and finishes
- Commercial laundry, small pool systems, boiler HW systems, chilled water systems
What are your career journey highlights?
- Engaged in engineering education support
- International projects on 6 continents and pacific islands
- Been to all 50 states in the US
- Complex systems in institutional facilities
- Humidity control
What motivated you to get into the plumbing engineering industry?
I have been involved in construction my entire life. My interest in math and mechanical gadgets led to engineering education, then career opportunities in commercial construction church projects followed.
What are the most exciting or rewarding aspects of your work?
Being involved in the entire building process from concept to operations, building design configuration, design calculations, system and equipment selection, layout and design, construction coordination, site visits and inspections, building and system commissioning, operation and maintenance support. It is great to have diversification engagement and variety of experience.
It is also gratifying to be able to contribute to projects that align with personal and spiritual convictions, finding balance with personal, work and family priorities.
What value have you gained from participation in ASPE Connect?
I find it valuable to review the various issues that come up in the ASPE Connect Forum. There is valuable information and reminders.
What are some of the most interesting plumbing design challenges you have encountered?
- Dynamic response to pressure variations with RPBP makes the entire mechanical room dance.
- Where there is all the existing piping in walls on hospital remodels.
What is your favorite hobby or pastime outside of work?
I love the outdoors: skiing, hiking, boating, swimming, canyoneering, biking, snorkeling, and SCUBA.
Be sure to connect with @David Merrill and say hello!