What is the single most important priority for ASHRAE in the next 3 years?

• A. Engineering design using AI. We will either be leaders or irrelevant.
• B. Expand traditional HVAC training without AI
• C. Focus only on social events for members
• D. Reduce standards development funding

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is how a professional society should set a strategic priority that maximizes impact and relevance in a rapidly evolving field. Emphasizing engineering design that uses AI positions ASHRAE to lead in innovation, improve performance and efficiency, and deliver tangible value to members and the industry. AI-enabled design can accelerate smarter decisions, optimize energy use, and support data-driven standards and guidelines, which keeps the organization at the forefront as technology transforms practice. This forward-looking focus also strengthens ASHRAE’s ability to attract collaboration, funding, and member engagement, ensuring long-term influence and financial health.

Expanding traditional HVAC training without AI, while useful, does not leverage the current surge of intelligent tools that are reshaping design and operation. Focusing only on social events for members misses the opportunity to advance the society’s mission through impactful technical leadership. Reducing funding for standards development would weaken ASHRAE’s core role in shaping safe, efficient, and consistent industry practices, undermining member value and credibility.