Session Overview
Back by popular demand, the AHR Exhibitor Controller Showdown takes the stage—Vegas style. Leading manufacturers will showcase their latest smart building controllers, demonstrating the features, flexibility, and performance that set them apart. This year’s Elvis-themed edition promises not only great insights but also a bit of Vegas flair. Learn how to evaluate, program, and commission today’s most advanced controllers while enjoying an engaging, head-to-head competition you won’t forget.
SPEAKERS
Gus Bauder, Regional Sales Leader, Cochrane Supply
Gus has been a dedicated member of the HVAC industry since 1981, beginning his career in the family business installing residential systems. By the mid-1980s, he expanded his expertise as a field technician specializing in commercial start-up, testing, balancing, and controls, working with a range of systems from pneumatics to DDC.
In 2002, Gus joined Temperature Controls Systems as the Director of Building Automation, where he established and grew the company’s Building Automation Department. He later became the Director of Building Automation at Control Tech Supply in January 2020. Following the merger of Control Tech Supply with Cochrane Supply and Engineering in November 2022, Gus assumed the role of Regional Sales Leader for Cochrane Supply South.
Gus holds certifications in Niagara R2, Niagara AX, and Niagara N4, among other software platforms from various manufacturers. He has also participated in numerous Voice of Customer (VOC) initiatives and R&D teams, contributing valuable insights to the development of innovative products and solutions.
William Cooper, Area Market Leader, Cochrane Supply
As Area Market Leader at Cochrane Supply & Engineering in Florida, William Cooper is passionate about empowering smarter, more connected buildings. He works closely with partners to strengthen relationships, provide hands-on technical expertise, and deliver innovative Niagara-certified solutions that meet the unique needs of each client.
With over 18 years in the building automation industry, William has built a career around helping others succeed through technology and collaboration. His certifications in Niagara AX, N4, and N4 Advanced reflect a deep commitment to technical excellence and continuous learning—ensuring Cochrane Supply Partners receive the highest level of support and training.
Driven by a mission to enhance operational efficiency and innovation across the HVAC distribution space, William thrives on turning challenges into opportunities and helping teams achieve their goals through smarter building solutions.
Pawel Szarmanski, Solution Product Manager, iSMA Controlli
Paweł is a Senior Product Manager with a deep passion for innovation and technology. At iSMA CONTROLLI, he drives product growth and leads cross-functional teams developing next-generation Building Automation Systems. He is a graduate of Gdańsk University of Technology in Poland, holding a degree in Automation and Controls.
Steve Hoffman, Strategic Account Manager, Honeywell
Hoff holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Western Michigan University. With 39 years of experience in various roles within the Building Automation Industry, he has dedicated his career to promoting energy management and operational efficiency in commercial buildings. Hoff has been an ASHRAE member since 2005, servings as President of the Western Michigan Chapter in 2009.
Scott Shaffer, Sales Director, Distech Controls
Scott joined Distech Controls in 2015 and has over 34 years of building automation system experience in business development and account management capacities. Scott is the Regional Sales Director for the Western half of the US for Distech Controls. Scott is in charge of managing Distech Controls Regional Sales Manager’s in the Western US along with the Specification Sales Manager & Sales Support Engineers in the West. Scott’s sales team is responsible for growing Distech Controls business in the Western half of the US managing over 120 Authorized Controls Systems Integrators and distributors.
