The Mechanical Engineering Department, Nirma University, was privileged to host Mr. William McQuade, ASHRAE Society immediate past president, for an inspiring distinguished lecture on “Healthy Buildings: Designing for Life.”
The session provided our students with valuable insights into how the built environment influences health, comfort, resilience, energy efficiency, and sustainability while highlighting the critical role of HVAC&R professionals in shaping healthier and more resilient buildings.
The interaction also introduced students to the broader ASHRAE ecosystem—technical knowledge, standards, research, global conferences, design competitions, industry exposure, professional networking, and leadership opportunities. It was an excellent opportunity for our students to understand how classroom learning can evolve into research, innovation, global competitions, and meaningful professional careers.
We sincerely thank Mr. William McQuade for his valuable time, inspiring interaction, and continued commitment to connecting with students and chapters across ASHRAE Region XV. His visit to Nirma University was truly an enriching experience for our students and faculty.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Rajesh Patel, Director & Dean, Nirma University; Prof. Dr. (Ar.) Chandran Rekha Jetty, Director, Institute of Architecture and Planning, Nirma University; Mr. Pankaj Dharkar, DRC, ASHRAE Region XV; Mr. Aakash Patel, RMCR, ASHRAE Region XV; Mr. Hasmukh Patel, President, ASHRAE Western India Chapter; Dr. K.M. Patel, HOD, Mechanical Engg Dept, Nirma University; Dr. Vikas Lakhera, Section Head; Dr Niraj Shah, Associate Professor, Dr. Balkrushna Shah, Assistant Professor & SAC, ASHRAE WIC; Prof. Vibha Gajjar, Associate Professor, Institute of Architecture and Planning, Nirma University; Ar. Purvi Panchal, Assistant Professor; Mr. Vijay Panchal; Mr. Ashutosh Vyas; Mr. Harshal Sarda; and Dr. Yash Shukla, ASHRAE DL and Executive Director, CARBSE, CEPT University, along with all faculty members and student volunteers, for their valuable support and contribution in making this interaction meaningful and memorable.
The Mechanical Engineering Department looks forward to strengthening its association with ASHRAE and providing students with more opportunities to learn. • Connect • Innovate • Lead in the field of HVAC&R and the built environment.