Two scientists from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have been honored for their contributions to the field of building technologies. Stephen Kowalski and Mikael Salonvaara were recognized with the Distinguished Service Award during the ASHRAE 2024 summer conference in Indianapolis, an acknowledgment of their extensive work and service in the society's chapter, regional, and society activities.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) bestows this award upon those who have significantly contributed to the organization over a substantial period. Kowalski and Salonvaara, each with over 25 years of active membership, have played key roles in ASHRAE's Technical and Standards Project Committees, as reported by ORNL.
Stephen Kowalski's career at ORNL, which he joined in 2021, includes leading the Multifunctional Equipment Integration group. His efforts are zeroed in on pioneering HVAC technologies, exploring methods such as innovative vapor compression for air conditioners and heat pumps, alongside carbon capture strategies. His industry experience includes a tenure at Trane Technologies focusing on product development for residential and commercial HVAC systems. Holding advanced degrees in engineering and business, Kowalski also collaborates with DOE's Building Technologies Office.
Mikael Salonvaara, an authority in heat, air, and moisture transfer through building envelopes, has been with ORNL since 2019. Salonvaara's innovation is evident in his work developing a robotic spray foam insulation system intended to enhance quality, cost-effectiveness, and safety in building construction. Before ORNL, he contributed to both the private sector and academia, honing his expertise in building science and accumulating experience across continents. "He is currently leading projects quantifying how wood structures reduce building energy, peak demand and embodied carbon," according to the ORNL announcement.
Additionally, ORNL's Andre Desjarlais and Antonio Aldykiewicz earned accolades for their scholarly work, receiving the Best Paper Award for a study on moisture content measurement in cold climate residential buildings. ORNL, helmed by UT-Battelle for the DOE's Office of Science, is central to the United States' physical sciences research, seeking to address pivotal global challenges.
