September 2026 Newsletter 
Calendar of Events
ashrae YEAR AT A GLANCE
See below for a rough outline of this year's ASHRAE events. Be on the lookout for more information closer to the event dates!
Monthly Meeting
September MONTHLY MEETING - OMAHA
September 8th, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Legends - Aksarben 6920 Pacific St., Omaha, NE 68106
Welcome to a new Nebraska ASHRAE season!
Presentation Title: The value of neurodiversity at work
This presentation explores neurodiversity in the workplace and highlights the value of different ways of thinking, learning, and processing information. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing neurodivergent individuals as contributors to cognitive diversity and creating environments where they can thrive.
- Explains what neurodiversity is and why it matters
- Common strengths often associated with neurodivergent individuals
- Discusses challenges that may arise in traditional workplace environments
- Practical strategies to foster inclusion
BIO:
Abby Visty-Brophy has been a dedicated member of ASHRAE for over 15 years, significantly contributing to the HVAC industry through various leadership roles. Abby serves as the President of the Nebraska ASHRAE Chapter, where they are committed to advancing the chapter's mission and initiatives.
Previously, Abby held the position of Regional Vice Chair (RVC) for the Chapter Technology Transfer Committee (CTTC) and a Chapter Regional Conference (CRC) Co-Chair in Region IX. Throughout their career, Abby has been passionate about promoting sustainability, innovation, and excellence within the HVAC community. Their extensive experience and dedication to ASHRAE have made them a respected leader and advocate for the industry.
Abby currently works at Trane as the regional Digital Services Operations Leader.
September MONTHLY MEETING - Lincoln
September 9th, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Lazlo's Brewery & Grill - 210 N 7th St., Lincoln, NE 68508
Presentation title: Data Analytics and AI in the HVAC Industry
This presentation highlights how data analytics and artificial intelligence are transforming the HVAC industry by turning complex data into actionable insights that improve decision-making, system performance, and sustainability.
- Explores how data analytics and AI are reshaping HVAC
- Shows how analytics can simplify complexity and support faster decisions
- Reviews different types of AI and their applications in HVAC
- Discusses the pros and cons of open-source AI solutions
- Includes a review of the ASHRAE Policy for Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Emphasizes responsible and ethical AI adoption
BIO:
Abby Visty-Brophy has been a dedicated member of ASHRAE for over 15 years, significantly contributing to the HVAC industry through various leadership roles. Abby serves as the President of the Nebraska ASHRAE Chapter, where they are committed to advancing the chapter's mission and initiatives.
Previously, Abby held the position of Regional Vice Chair (RVC) for the Chapter Technology Transfer Committee (CTTC) and a Chapter Regional Conference (CRC) Co-Chair in Region IX. Throughout their career, Abby has been passionate about promoting sustainability, innovation, and excellence within the HVAC community. Their extensive experience and dedication to ASHRAE have made them a respected leader and advocate for the industry.
Abby currently works at Trane as the regional Digital Services Operations Leader.
President's Report
As we welcome September and the start of a new ASHRAE year, it is hard to believe how quickly the summer has flown by. Since our last newsletter in June 2026, much of our time and energy has been focused on preparing for the Region IX CRC — and I am thrilled to share that it was an incredible success.
This event would not have been possible without the dedication and support of so many people. We had approximately 40 volunteers who gave their time and energy to help make the conference run smoothly. Their efforts played a huge role in creating a memorable experience for everyone involved.
The conference brought together about 50 attendees for the technical conference, around 120 full conference registrations, and approximately 20 companion registrations. In addition, participants enjoyed three outstanding technical tours, valuable networking opportunities, meaningful brainstorming discussions, and plenty of fun with family and friends along the way.
Overall, the Region IX CRC was a tremendous success, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who contributed, participated, and supported the event. It was a wonderful showcase of the strength, engagement, and enthusiasm within our chapter and region.
After taking a well-earned breath for a couple of weeks, we have already jumped back into planning what promises to be a fantastic 2026–2027 ASHRAE year. There is a lot to look forward to, and I am excited for all that lies ahead. Be sure to check out our “year at a glance” image in this newsletter for a preview of what’s coming.
Thank you for your continued involvement and support of the Nebraska Chapter. I look forward to a great year together.
Abby Visty-Brophy
President – Nebraska ASHRAE
Membership Promotion Committee Update
The 2026-2027 ASHRAE year is the final year of the current membership model. Starting in 2027, ASHRAE membership will be simplified. You can find more information on the new membership model here: https://www.ashrae.org/membership/new-membership-model
This is also the final year for student members to take advantage of the SmartStart program. Any student who converts their membership from student membership to associate member using the SmartStart program will pay $30 for the first year, $110 for the second year, and $145 for the third year. We encourage all students to take advantage of this offer while you can! In the future, new young professionals will get 2 years of discounted rates ($145)
ASPE Omaha Special Presentation
aspe OMAHA featured speaker - Christoph lohr
October 1st, 2026, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tiburon Golf Club & Banquet Facility - 10302 South 168th Street, Omaha, NE, 68136
ASPE Omaha is hosting a free special dinner meeting with featured speaker Christoph Lohr. He is presenting on the Water Demand Calculator, an updated to Hunters curve and a step towards downsizing our piping to match lower flow fixtures. The best part is that this meeting is free to attend, and includes dinner and drinks.
Register and learn more Here
ASHRAE Student Chapter Updates
ashrae student design competition - University of Nebraska-lincoln team secures second place
Congratulations are in order to the student Systems Selection team for placing 2nd in the 2026 ASHRAE Student Design Competition! A special thanks to all of the local chapter members for their continued support of the students. Interest to learn more about the design competition and the student team? Find more info Here!
update from university of nebraska-lincoln
Nebraska has an outstanding community of architects, engineers, contractors, manufacturers, owners, and technical specialists. Connecting students with that community while they are still in school benefits everyone.
Students gain exposure to real projects, career opportunities, mentors, and emerging technologies. Firms gain an opportunity to develop relationships with talented students before they enter the workforce. And our profession benefits from graduates who have a stronger understanding of how engineering knowledge translates into successful buildings and projects.
ASHRAE provides a natural bridge between education and professional practice, and we want our student branch to become an even stronger part of that bridge.
Lincoln Firms: We Would Love to Have You on Campus
If your organization works in HVAC, architectural engineering, mechanical or electrical systems, controls, energy, commissioning, construction, facilities management, sustainability, manufacturing, consulting, or another area connected to the built environment, we would appreciate your involvement.
Whether your firm is looking to recruit students, showcase an innovative project, introduce a new technology, or simply give back to the profession, we would be delighted to welcome you to UNL.
Come meet our students, share your experience, and help us develop the next generation of professionals who will design, construct, operate, and improve our built environment.
Please contact Vishnu Reddi at [email protected] to help coordinate "hosting" a table.
