2024 Ones to Watch - Innovators in CRE: Chris Mias, Collado Engineering

A principal in the firm, Chris Mias handles the management and development of the mechanical department in addition to project design and business development. Within his department, Mias leads a group of engineers focusing on energy use policy, sustainability, and high performing systems. Collectively, they are responsible for energy auditing, commissioning, and tracking energy efficient rebates for Collado Engineering’s clients as well as advising the team on energy efficient design. While the department he oversees consists of five engineers, he oversees many of the firm’s projects with engineers from each discipline and mentors many of the young engineers in the office.

Innovative Solution: 

As a MEP consultant in the commercial real estate sector, sustainability and energy management have become a focal point in the market. Regulations focusing on decarbonization have put an emphasis on how the energy and utility relationship between tenants and landlords is spelled out. We have become more cognizant of the age and condition of MEP systems and look for ways to understand and reduce energy use. By establishing sub-metering requirements, upgrading to digital controls through BMS/EMS interfaces, and defining maintenance responsibilities, a more transparent relationship is created. With landlords facing financial penalties for excessive energy consumption or carbon emissions, knowing where and how energy is being used, through thoughtful MEP design, is important.

Innovative Outlook:

From my experience as a MEP design engineer, I see innovation opportunities for improving occupant comfort while pushing for increased energy efficiency and decarbonization. In a post-pandemic world, indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and the physical working environment must be of the highest standard. These luxuries tend to come with a higher operating cost from both a dollars and carbon emission standpoint. Energy recovery systems, UV filtration, individualized thermal controls, use of IOT technology, occupancy sensing and demand control ventilation, and building automation through AI are tools we are using to accomplish dollar AND carbon savings while maintaining the highest level of occupant comfort. 

“Since joining Collado Engineering in 2019, Chris has led the firm’s energy initiatives, making energy efficiency a priority in every project. Whether engaged as energy consultants or not, Chris and the energy department collaborate closely with the project team to deliver energy-efficient designs that align with state regulations, carbon reduction goals, and the latest industry best practices. Additionally, Chris ensures the team remains well-informed on emerging legislation and evolving standards in the energy sector.” - Andrew Hlushko, Collado Engineering.