2025 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Izzy Friedman, Entech

“Izzy brings a rare combination of technical mastery and human-centered leadership. He doesn’t just solve problems, he builds trust, creates value, and inspires everyone around him to raise their game. Watching him lead complex projects with precision and thought makes it clear: Izzy is redefining what leadership in this field looks like.” - Simon Soloff, President, Entech.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? I recently led the successful implementation of a high-efficiency controls system for a commercial boiler upgrade. The project came in under budget and ahead of schedule, improving system performance and reducing energy costs by 20%. I’m proud of it because it combined technical expertise, coordination, and client trust, proving our team’s value and impact on real-world efficiency.

Who has been pivotal in your professional development, and how have they influenced you? My children have been the most pivotal in my professional development. Their presence gave my work new purpose, pushing me to lead by example, stay resilient, and continuously improve. They’ve influenced how I manage time, communicate, and stay grounded, reminding me daily why I strive to grow professionally.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? Early on, I struggled with balancing hands-on fieldwork and project management. Deadlines would compete with troubleshooting or client needs. I learned to prioritize, delegate, and communicate clearly - skills that now help me lead projects without burnout or oversight. It taught me that technical knowledge is most powerful when paired with strong organizational habits.

What is your top advice for someone just starting out in your field? Be curious and take initiative to learn both the technical and human sides of the job. Ask questions, show up early, and watch how experienced pros handle pressure. Respect the hands-on work, but also invest time learning system design, safety, and client communication. Over time, being both reliable and knowledgeable will set you apart in a competitive field.