Session Overview
Retrofits aren’t new construction—and applying the same solutions often leads to disappointment. This session explores why retrofit projects require different rules and approaches, with real-world examples of deep energy retrofits and system redesigns. Learn what worked, what didn’t, and how to strike the right balance between performance, cost, and complexity. Gain practical strategies to deliver retrofit systems that last and exceed expectations for owners and occupants alike.
SPEAKERS
Brad White, President, SES Consulting
Brad is President of SES Consulting and a Professional Engineer with over 15 years of experience in energy efficiency, low carbon technologies, and smart building systems. He has demonstrated his passion for the sustainable use of energy throughout his professional career and this continues to be a driving force in his work. Brad works closely with clients to integrate leading edge technologies and energy conservation strategies into existing buildings; these can include fault detection and analytics, electrification of heating systems, and advanced controls. Brad is a Contributing Editor to AutomatedBuildings.com and a member of the City of Vancouver’s Technical Advisory Committee on Existing Multi-Unit Residential and Commercial Buildings.
Stephanie Poole, Principal, SES Consulting
Stephanie is a professional engineer with extensive experience in energy efficiency and decarbonization projects, including audits, implementations, commissioning, project management, and strategic planning. A former teacher, she now applies her expertise to develop and deliver energy and decarbonization courses for organizations such as the Canadian Institute for Energy Efficiency (CIET). She is also a contributing editor for AutomatedBuildings.com and sits on the Building Decarbonization Alliance (BDA) expert advisory panel.
Joseph Brown, VP Building Technology & Decarbonization Lead, KingSett Capital
Joe is responsible for enhancing technology, innovation, resiliency and sustainability, driving value across KingSett’s real estate portfolio. KingSett Capital is a Canadian private equity real estate investment business which creates and co-invests in real estate investment solutions to deliver sustainable premium risk weighted returns. KingSett has a portfolio of $19 billion of office, industrial, residential, retail, hotel and development properties. In addition to his technology role, Joe leads KingSett’s decarbonization program. Joe holds a Bachelors of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and has over 20 years of experience in Engineering, Commissioning and property and project management.
Daniel Caldwell, Business Manager: RetroFIT+, Americas, Belimo
Daniel Caldwell is the Business Manager for Belimo America’s RetroFIT+ Strategic Initiative, where he leverages more than 18 years of expertise in enhancing the performance, efficiency, and resilience of commercial HVAC systems. He leads enterprise-level retrofit strategies that empower building owners to optimize HVAC operations through data-driven insights, hydronic optimization, and advanced controls. Daniel holds a bachelor’s degree in International Business & Finance and an MBA from DePaul University. He is passionate about translating complex HVAC challenges into scalable, practical solutions that reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, and advance long-term sustainability goals across the built environment.
Chris Saltz, CEO, Couts
Chris Saltz is the President of Couts, where he is responsible for setting the company’s vision and leading its overall strategy and operations. He has more than 28 years of experience in the commercial HVAC industry, spanning sales, management, and design-build delivery, and has led teams on complex, high-value projects across the country. Chris holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Auburn University and completed advanced technical training through the U.S. Navy’s Nuclear Power School and Submarine Warfare School, building a strong foundation in engineering discipline, leadership, and operational excellence. A U.S. Navy veteran with ten years of honorable service, Chris served as a Submarine Warfare Officer and earned multiple commendations during his military career. Throughout his professional career, he has successfully led major projects including a design-build casino, large-scale central utility and controls systems, and multi-year campus-wide service contracts. Chris has also been actively involved in industry and civic leadership, with past memberships in ASHRAE, DBIA, and BOMA, and service on the boards of the Los Angeles and Chicagoland Chambers of Commerce.
