Dr Nathan Groenhout named AIRAH president

Dr Nathan Groenhout, M.AIRAH, has been named the president of the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Airconditioning and Heating (AIRAH).

Elected unanimously by his fellow directors at the most recent AIRAH board meeting, Groenhout takes over from Sean Treweek, M.AIRAH. Treweek, who was in the role for more than three years, will continue to serve on the institute’s board.

AIRAH CEO Phil Wilkinson, M.AIRAH, says Groenhout’s appointment to the important role marks a new era for AIRAH and for the institute’s governance.

“Congratulations go to Nathan, whose many contributions at board level over the past two years have seen him earn the trust and respect of his fellow board directors,” Wilkinson says.

“Nathan is a highly credentialed building services professional, whose attributes have already contributed greatly to AIRAH,” Wilkinson says. “His leadership skills and ability to think laterally are a good match with what’s required in the position of president. He will bring a combination of technical, strategic and business skills to the role.”

Groenhout, a mechanical engineer by training, has spent the past 10 years working in the area of environmentally sustainable design as a researcher, academic and consultant. He has focused on the areas of occupant thermal comfort, passive design strategies for effective ventilation and holistic sustainability.

Groenhout is chair of AIRAH’s Environmentally Sustainable Design special technical group and has previously served on several AIRAH conference committees. He is a managing principal at NKG Consulting.

Groenhout says he’s excited to be at the helm of the not-for-profit institute.“As an organisation, AIRAH is at the forefront of what’s happening in building services and has been throughout its 90-year history,” Groenhout says. “Through its publications, conferences and seminars, it is helping to lead the industry forward. I’m proud to serve as president.”

Wilkinson thanked Treweek for his time and effort in the demanding role.

“AIRAH owes a considerable debt of gratitude to Sean Treweek for the vision, guidance and steady hand he brought to the board table,” Wilkinson says.

“Sean took on the role when the institute was poised at a delicate stage. By working closely with management, he’s helped forge a solid base from which to launch future initiatives.”

Groenhout’s presidency took effect immediately upon the board’s vote.