From energy auditing to a career in full-time commissioning, this journey illustrates the unique ways engineers are drawn to and develop within the field.

A Strong Foundation

Jess Swaringen didn’t set out to become a commissioning professional. After a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Villanova University and a master’s degree in sustainable engineering, Jess joined JDM Associates as a Research Assistant. Based in Falls Church, VA, the role offered early exposure to a wide range of clients across both the private and public sectors. Jess’s work included programmatic support for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings Initiative and collaborating with commercial real estate owners nationwide to identify and implement energy optimization strategies.

The Turning Point

The work was rewarding, but also at times frustrating. Energy audits regularly surfaced cost-effective conservation measures, many with short payback periods, that went unimplemented because they weren’t prioritized by decision-makers. But on some projects, Jess’s firm was also brought in to oversee and commission the recommended improvements. “I quickly discovered that I found this aspect of the work far more engaging,” Jess recalls.

A Career in Commissioning

Over time, Jess transitioned into a full-time commissioning role. Today, commissioning makes up 75-100% of Jess’s work. That shift in focus hasn’t meant leaving the earlier interest behind. As Jess describes it, the passion for identifying opportunities to improve energy efficiency and optimize building performance in both new and existing facilities has never gone away.

Advice for the Next Generation

For students and emerging professionals considering commissioning, Jess’s advice draws directly from that experience: get into the field as early as possible.

“Seek out internships or work-study opportunities that provide hands-on field experience. One of the unique aspects of commissioning is the balance between office-based engineering work and time spent in the field on construction sites and in existing buildings. The more practical experience you gain with building systems outside the classroom, the better prepared you’ll be and the more competitive you’ll be as a candidate after graduation. That experience doesn’t have to come exclusively from traditional engineering roles, either. Working for a contractor or in the skilled trades can provide valuable hands-on knowledge that translates directly to a successful career in commissioning.”