ArchiPro Commercial Expo speaker profile: Doug Gillanders

ABB is a global technology company working to achieve a more productive, sustainable future through technology and innovation. Doug Gillanders, Product Manager at ABB Smart Buildings will be joining us at the ArchiPro Commercial Expo to lead an education session on driving industrial digitalisation. In the lead up to the ArchiPro Commercial Expo, we caught up with Doug to learn more about his work and how technology can improve the built environment.

Hi Doug, please tell us a little bit about yourself and what your work involves.

I have been in the electrical industry for over 30 years now. My background is as a registered electrician, however, I moved into sales roles around 15 years ago. I have been largely involved in commercial building projects since then, and am now a product manager for ABB Smart Buildings. My work involves supporting our customers to make the correct choice when they either upgrade or build from new, providing options on how to take advantage of technology to improve the energy efficiency of a building. I also love getting out and enjoying the great doors with family and friends. 

Can you summarise what you’ll be speaking about at the ArchiPro Commercial Expo in a few sentences?

Smart buildings are smart business – how to develop buildings with sustainable leading edge.

How does the ArchiPro Commercial Expo theme of technology & automation apply to the work that you do?

Requirements for buildings that are based on the people who use them for work or living are now driving the need to incorporate both technology and automation to improve the built environment. So yes, it aligns very well.

What are some key things you think the design and construction industry needs to embrace in order to build a better future for New Zealand?

Being open to new ideas, and understanding that working together for a better outcome is far more productive than the silos we currently have. Often crossing the divide between form and function can be quite difficult.

What aspect of the ArchiPro Commercial Expo are you looking forward to most?

The opportunity to meet with people who are keen to improve our built environment.

Come along to the ArchiPro Commercial Expo to hear from Doug, and other experts, on how to make the most of innovative and sustainable technology to maintain our planet for future generations to come. Register here.