America’s collective IQ, from pre-school kids to octogenarians, continues to be the focus of heated study, measurement, and debate. Now a new challenge from Siemens Industry, Inc. puts the intelligence of buildings in the United States to the test.

The Smartest Building in America™ challenge looks at how people use the sophisticated technology that keeps America’s buildings operating. Anyone may submit a nominating entry for a building that operates either APOGEE® or TALON® building automation systems. The challenge looks for innovative and creative approaches taken by facility managers.

“The challenge is really designed to recognize the intelligence and ingenuity of the men and women who manage America’s buildings,” says Christoph Vogel, Vice President of Control Products and Systems (CPS), Building Technologies Division of Siemens.

“The United States has a small army of facility managers and building engineers who work under tremendous pressure to balance priorities - control lighting, increase efficiency, prevent fires, meet security and emergency requirements and maintain budgets. When you think of the variety of ways we use buildings and the number of people going in and out every day, you realize how monumental their job is to keep this country in business. This challenge gives facility managers and engineers a chance to illustrate their creativity and hard work.”

Participants are asked to submit brief videos that explain why their buildings are the smartest in America. They can submit their entry form and video at www.smartestbuilldinginamerica.com.

A panel consisting of leading authorities in facility management, such as Jim Sinopoli, Managing Principal, Smart Buildings, and Robert Beverly, Editor, Engineered Systems Magazine, will judge the entries. Two prizes will be awarded to each product category - APOGEE and TALON. Grand-prize winners will receive $25,000 in products and services from the Building Technologies Division or a $25,000 contribution to a qualified charity of their choice. Runner-up prize winners will receive $15,000 in products and services from the Building Technologies Division or a $15,000 contribution to a qualified charity of their choice.

The deadline for entries is July 15. Go to www.smartestbuildinginamerica.com for more information and entry details.