Over time, many if not all employees eventually become comfortable in their work environment. I don’t think this can be helped, be-cause with routine comes contentment.

Back around 2002, I came up with this idea based on a perceived need to have commissioning software available for me to write functional performance test (FPT) documents.

Over my 50 years in the HVAC industry (OMG … 50 years!) I made it a point to change jobs approximately every seven years to continue to improve my knowledge of the HVAC industry.

Back in 1980, I attended my first ASHRAE winter meeting, and yes, I am aware that some of you readers weren’t born then, but I digress.

With this year coming to an end and a new business year starting next month, this is a good time for a first-time manager to stop and take one last look at her first year business plan and assess how things went relative to the company’s goals; the employees within the group’s goals; and the group’s sales, revenue, and operating budget.

Several years ago, I wrote book titled Managing People In The HVAC/R Industry, and in it, I dedicated a chapter to those who take on the challenge of being a first-time manager.

Back in 1975, John T. Molloy wrote a book titled Dress for Success.

If you are one of the fortunate ones to have had the opportunity to work in the building industry throughout your career, you probably don’t think you can or will leave a legacy for others to benefit from being in this business.