Richard (Rich) B. King graduated from Auburn University in 1999 and worked for Disney for two years before moving to Peninsula Engineering, Inc.,where he has worked for the last eight years. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Florida and a Principal with Peninsula Engineering. His work focuses mainly on the entertainment (attractions) sector, and a majority of the work he does is rehabs and refurbishments.
Question: What was the toughest challenge you faced as ASHRAE Central Florida Chapter President?
Rich: Juggling all the people and events. ASHRAE is an all-volunteer organization, so the challenge was to schedule individuals and groups of people to make all the events happen without over-scheduling anyone, and following up to make sure everyone was on track with their responsibilities so that the events ran smoothly.
Question: What was the most enjoyable aspect of being Chapter President?
Rich: Working with all the great people in our organization, especially those on the Board of Governors. It takes a lot to successfully run an organization this size and keep it on track, and it really can’t be done just by the president alone. Many volunteer hours and consistent effort are required.
Question: What was your favorite ASHRAE social event during your term?
Rich: Definitely the Dodgeball Tournament! It was lots of fun and a great chance to take out your frustrations by whacking people with the ball! Everyone had a blast, even the folks who were just watching!
Question: In what ways has ASHRAE affected your professional life?
Rich: ASHRAE has given me the opportunity to meet a very broad group of people in our industry – people that I wouldn’t have otherwise ever met because they are in competing firms. This has lead to lifelong friendships.
Question: What is your current level of activity within the chapter now?
Rich: I’m currently on the board of governors for the Central Florida Chapter and am also the Regional Webmaster for Region XII.
Question: Do you have any advice for future ASHRAE Presidents and Officers?
Rich: Being an ASHRAE president is a very time consuming role, but not without reward. I believe that outside of all the duties of the president, it is important to stay grounded and remember to have fun in the process.
By, Donia Bessa – History Chair, 2010-2011
