ASHRAE, an international society of more than 50,000 heating, refrigerating and air-conditioning (HVAC) professionals from over 132 nations, has announced a dynamic technical programme for the 2026 Women in ASHRAE Leadership Symposium, taking place from April 13-14 in Los Angles, US. 

Following a sold-out inaugural event in 2025, the symposium returns with an expanded agenda designed to empower women and allies across the HVAC&R and built environment industries.

“This event offers professionals at every career stage, from students and early-career practitioners to seasoned executives, the opportunity to enhance leadership skills, grow their professional networks, and explore inclusive strategies for advancing women in the industry,” said Karine Leblanc, Symposium Chair.

Featured keynotes include:

•Gail Brager, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Architecture, University of California, Berkeley. Brager will share insights from her leadership in building science and sustainability research and mentorship of emerging leaders.

•Sara Safari, Ph.D., Empowerment Activist and Author. Safari will speak from her own personal experiences in overcoming challenges and how those principles can inspire peak performance in technical teams.

Key breakout sessions include:

•Building Future Makers: How to Inspire the Next Generation into the Trades: Explores strategies to empower young talent and expand pathways into HVAC&R and related technical careers.

•Smarter Buildings Start with You: AI and IoT in HVAC: Provides practical insights into how artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things technologies are being applied to improve building performance and commissioning.

•Executive Presence Without Pretending: Focuses on developing authentic confidence, clear communication and personal influence in both technical and leadership roles.

•Inside the Walls of Net-Zero: Women Designing the Future: Highlights real-world case studies showcasing women leading decarbonization, electrification and net-zero building projects.

•Managing Technical Teams with Emotional Intelligence: Offers tools and approaches for effective leadership across varying backgrounds, roles and experience levels.

Founded in 1894, ASHRAE is an industry leader in research, standards writing, publishing, certification and continuing education.

Its members are dedicated to promoting a healthy and sustainable built environment for all, through strategic partnerships with organizations in the HVAC&R community and across related industries.

The Society is showcasing integrated building solutions and sustainability in action through the opening of the ASHRAE Global Headquarters building in metro-Atlanta, Georgia.-TradeArabia News Service