William (Bill) Lane, L.AIRAH, is one of several veteran AIRAH members who meet regularly for a “Legends lunch”. Ecolibrium staff writer Nick Johns-Wickberg chatted with Lane at a recent gathering.
Nick Johns-Wickberg: What has AIRAH meant to you throughout your career?
Bill Lane: AIRAH has allowed me to meet like-minded people from my industry and to help challenge my understanding of what I understand to be right and wrong. But most importantly it has provided me with good-quality information so that I can make an informed understanding of what is correct, the friendships have been irreplaceable, and it has allowed me the vehicle to help my fellow members flourish in their own career paths.
AIRAH has given me a great opportunity to promote the commissioning technician to the industry, and to highlight his importance if an unqualified technician attempts to carry out the task of commissioning.
NJW: Why is it important to keep connections active among retired or later-career members though the legends group luncheons?
BL: The mind is a very complex thing and thrives on mental stimulation. Being part of this group does that for me, whereby we would address concerns raised by our AIRAH members and collectively respond to the question from a wealth of knowledge, experience and understanding.
It is also great to catch up with colleagues you have worked with and respected over the years. It’s also important to give back to an industry that has allowed you to be a part of it.
NJW: What advice would you like to share with the younger HVAC&R professionals who will be taking the industry forward over the next few decades?
BL: Work with an ethical standard and manner, and with pride in what you do. Aim to achieve, but with integrity always.
Provide the best possible service to the client because not only do they deserve it, but they are also paying you for this privilege, so show the client the respect that they deserve.
Remember when you are talking to the client you are representing your organisation, so look the part, speak with respect and at a level that the client can understand.
You may be challenged to provide a quick and easy solution to a problem but not be honest. This will now come back to your character building. So be careful: this can be a slippery slope should you enter.
