ASHRAE 2026–2027 Society Theme

ASHRAE’s 2026–2027 Society Year is led by President Sarah E. Maston, P.E., BCxP, LEED AP, under the theme:

“Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience”

The theme highlights the critical role of existing buildings in creating a more efficient, high-performing, healthy, and resilient built environment.

As buildings age and face increasing challenges related to climate change, energy performance, infrastructure constraints, and evolving occupant needs, retrofitting provides an important opportunity to improve building performance while extending the useful life of existing assets.

A Game Plan for Existing Buildings

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to retrofitting. Every building has its own combination of mechanical systems, operational requirements, budgets, infrastructure limitations, and performance objectives.

ASHRAE’s 2026–2027 theme emphasizes the importance of developing a practical and coordinated game plan for each building.

This includes considering opportunities such as:

• Improving energy efficiency and building performance.
• Modernizing HVAC&R systems and controls.
• Applying retro-commissioning strategies.
• Improving indoor environmental quality and occupant health.
• Strengthening building resilience against climate and infrastructure challenges.
• Applying modern building codes and technical guidance.
• Developing innovative approaches to building operation and maintenance.
• Supporting workforce development and technical education.

Collaboration Is Key

Retrofitting for resilience requires collaboration across the entire building community.

Building owners, facility managers, engineers, architects, contractors, manufacturers, commissioning providers, code officials, educators, and other industry professionals all have an important role to play.

Through collaboration and the sharing of technical knowledge, Team ASHRAE can help develop effective strategies for improving existing buildings and preparing them for future challenges.

The Role of ASHRAE Pyramids Chapter

As part of the global ASHRAE community, the ASHRAE Pyramids Chapter supports this year's Society theme by promoting technical knowledge, professional development, collaboration, and practical solutions for the built environment.

Throughout the 2026–2027 Society Year, the Chapter will seek opportunities to connect the theme with its technical programs, educational activities, member engagement, and initiatives addressing building performance, energy efficiency, sustainability, HVAC&R technologies, controls, indoor environmental quality, and emerging industry challenges.

We invite ASHRAE members and the HVAC&R and building community to engage with this year's theme, exchange knowledge, and contribute to developing practical strategies that make existing buildings more efficient, high-performing, and resilient.

Learn More

For more information about the ASHRAE 2026–2027 Society Theme and President Sarah E. Maston’s vision for the Society Year, visit the official ASHRAE website:

ASHRAE President – Sarah E. Maston, P.E., BCxP, LEED AP
Learn more about the 2026–2027 ASHRAE Society Theme

Official ASHRAE Society Theme:
Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience