Apoorva Pradhan is a sustainability champion with over six years of experience in energy modeling and a background in architectural engineering. As a Building Performance Analyst at LPA Design Studios, she collaborates with design teams to optimize energy efficiency and create resilient, high-performing buildings. An active volunteer with IBPSA-USA, Apoorva is dedicated to advancing the field of building simulation through mentorship and industry engagement.
How long have you been a member of IBPSA-USA?
I joined the Education Committee four years ago and collaborated with a dedicated team of volunteers to spearhead the development of EPSI.
Why did you join IBPSA-USA?
I joined IBPSA-USA because I was looking for a community that shared my passion for creating better, more sustainable buildings through simulation. I wanted to connect with people who not only understand the challenges of the field but are also driving innovation and making real-world impacts.
What’s your favorite part of being a member of IBPSA-USA?
My favorite part of being a member of IBPSA-USA is the incredible network and community. The support system within this organization is unmatched. It’s inspiring to connect with like-minded peers and find mentors who are not only knowledgeable but genuinely invested in your growth and success.
Can you describe the volunteer work you do with IBPSA-USA?
In my volunteer work with IBPSA-USA, I focus on creating and promoting educational content to support young professionals. I organize webinars and other events designed to foster learning and professional growth. One of my primary goals for EPSI is to build a strong peer group where individuals can collaborate and support one another in advancing their careers.To encourage this, I help organize happy hours for informal networking and discussion groups for in-depth technical conversations. Since EPSI was founded during the pandemic, most of our events are virtual, which has the added benefit of enabling participation from professionals across the country.
How did you get involved with this volunteer work?
I got involved in this volunteer work thanks to a former co-worker who was actively volunteering with IBPSA-USA. She encouraged me to join, and it really opened the door for me. It's incredible how much of a difference dedicated mentors can make in shaping your path!
To someone who is interested in participating in IBPSA-USA, do you have any words of encouragement?
Getting involved with IBPSA-USA is a fantastic way to connect with like-minded professionals, gain new insights, and contribute to the advancement of building performance simulation. Don’t hesitate to dive in—there are so many opportunities to learn, grow, and make a real impact. Start small, explore different committees or events, and don’t be afraid to reach out to members for guidance. You’ll find a welcoming community ready to support and inspire you!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to enter the field of building performance simulation?
My advice for anyone interested in building performance simulation is to stay curious and embrace continuous learning. Focus on understanding core concepts like thermal dynamics, HVAC systems, envelope design, and sustainability principles. A strong foundation in these areas will make it much easier to apply software tools effectively later on. Networking is also key—join organizations like IBPSA-USA, attend industry conferences, and connect with professionals in the field.
Fun fact that people probably don’t know about you!
A fun fact about me is that I’ve fostered several rescue dogs! Each one has brought its own quirks and plenty of joy—along with a surprising amount of fur—into my life. Helping them find their forever homes is incredibly rewarding! And if you ever need a dog sitter, you know who to call!
