It takes a noble man to plant a seed for a tree that will some day give shade to people he may never meet.
David Elton Trueblood
Foundation History
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating & Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has more than a century of experience advancing the arts and sciences of HVAC&R and related human factors to serve the needs of its members and population at large.
In 1994, a dedicated group of long-time ASHRAE members created the ASHRAE Foundation to support and advance the needs of the HVAC&R industry. The ASHRAE Foundation is an endowed trust that provides funding for professional development and research programs, supplies qualified engineering students with much needed scholarship assistance, and ensures that ASHRAE will continue to have sufficient resources to sustain and expand the Society's vital work.
The creation of the ASHRAE Foundation was in response to a valid need for increased funding for ASHRAE programs and projects. A solid proponent of education, the Foundation recognizes and accepts the challenge to provide the financial support necessary to offer tailored educational programming to ensure HVAC&R professionals are prepared today for tomorrow's challenges.
ASHRAE Foundation's Mission
To provide a permanent financial resource to support the Society and its mission to benefit the public.
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ASHRAE’s Vision
ASHRAE will be the global leader, the foremost source of technical and educational information, and the primary provider of opportunity for professional growth in the arts and sciences of heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigerating.
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ASHRAE Society vs. ASHRAE Foundation: Understanding the Difference
While ASHRAE Society and ASHRAE Foundation share a commitment to advancing the built environment, they serve distinct roles in fulfilling this mission.
ASHRAE Society focuses on technical leadership, industry standards, research, and professional development, providing members with the resources and knowledge to shape the future of HVAC&R and sustainable building practices.
ASHRAE Foundation, on the other hand, ensures ASHRAE’s long-term impact by managing and growing financial resources that support programs and initiatives in perpetuity. Through endowments, planned giving, and strategic funding, the Foundation secures a sustainable future for HVAC&R research, scholarships, and education.
Together, ASHRAE Society and ASHRAE Foundation work hand in hand to drive innovation and education in the built environment—today and for generations to come.
See Our Impact
Empowering the Next Generation Through Scholarships |
The ASHRAE Foundation is committed to shaping the future of the HVAC&R industry by investing in the education of aspiring engineers and technology professionals. Through 38 Society scholarships and 30 Chapter-Awarded scholarships, ASHRAE provides critical financial support to students worldwide, encouraging them to pursue careers in engineering and building technology. Since its founding, ASHRAE Foundation has awarded millions of dollars to hundreds of students, helping to alleviate financial barriers and foster the next generation of industry leaders. By supporting scholarships, the ASHRAE Foundation ensures a pipeline of skilled professionals dedicated to advancing innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the built environment.
- Currently there are over 30 society scholarships and over 40 chapter scholarships that are growing each year. See how you can support scholarships here.
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Advancing Research for a Sustainable Future |
The ASHRAE Foundation plays a vital role in driving innovation by providing long-term financial support for ASHRAE’s research initiatives. Through endowments and strategic funding, the Foundation ensures that groundbreaking research in HVAC&R, building performance, and energy efficiency continues to thrive. By sustaining ASHRAE’s research efforts, the Foundation helps develop cutting-edge technologies, improve industry standards, and address global challenges like climate change and indoor air quality. Every contribution to the Foundation strengthens ASHRAE’s ability to shape the future of the built environment—creating healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable spaces for generations to come.
- Endowed research funds are established by both individuals and corporations. See how you can establish one here.
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Advancing Education Through the ASHRAE Learning Institute |
The ASHRAE Foundation is dedicated to expanding educational opportunities for professionals in the HVAC&R industry through its support of the ASHRAE Learning Institute (ALI). ALI offers high-quality training, certification programs, and continuing education courses designed to enhance technical expertise and promote industry best practices. By investing in ALI, the ASHRAE Foundation helps ensure that engineers, designers, and building professionals have access to the latest knowledge and skills needed to drive innovation and sustainability in the built environment. This lasting commitment to education empowers individuals and strengthens the industry for generations to come.
- The industry of HVAC&R is growing at an exponential rate. Support the future of the workforce here.
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ASHRAE Foundation
ASHRAE Foundation Board of Trustees 2023–24
Executive Committee
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- Randy Jones, Chair
- Don Colliver, 1st Vice Chair
- Michael Cooper, 2nd Vice Chair
- Jeff Littleton, Foundation Secretary
- Mike Hart, Treasurer
Foundation Trustee Member
Thomas E Watson
William K Klock
Mark W Fly
Allen C Kirkwood
Larry Kouma
Mick CA Schwedler
William A Harrison
James R Fields
Larry J Fisher
John L Harrod
Charles E Henck
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Julia A Keen
Ben A Leppard
John H Nix
Daniel C Pettway
Thomas H Phoenix
Boggarm S Setty
T. David Underwood
James E Wolf
Dennis J Wessel
Honorary Member Gordon V. R. Holness, PE
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