Member Spotlight: Daniel Buck
The Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) dives inside the career of Daniel Buck, Senior Consultant for Allana Buick & Bers (ABB) in Seattle, WA. In this feature interview, learn what made him become an ABAA member, what led him on his career path, and get his perspective on the future of the air barrier industry.
Daniel Buck, PE
Mr. Buck is a Consultant for Allana Buick & Bers (ABBAE). He specializes in Request For Information (RFI) and evaluating submittals interprets and applies building code and develops construction doc-uments. Mr. Buck has experience in design software such as, SolidWorks modeling, Computer Aid-ed Drafting, and Revit. Over the years he can analyzes materials through laboratory technique and implements safety awareness, perform NDE utilizing non destructive instruments including infrared cameras, simulates hygrothermal performance of building envelopes with WUFI analysis.
Name: Daniel Buck, PE
Title: Senior Consultant
Firm: Allana Buick & Bers (ABB)
City: Seattle, WA
What was the path to your career — how and why did you pursue a profession as a Building Envelope Consultant?
A: I started out in a Highschool construction trades program and went into the industry doing mostly residential siding and remodeling work. I completed my degree in Engineering and heard about Building Science through my internship as a structural engineer and thought it would be a good combination of my schooling and hands on experience.
Is there anything that you believe everyone in this industry should be working towards?
A: Spreading the philosophy of “build tight – ventilate right.”
What role have peers, mentors, or advisors played in your career?
A: I have had some great peers over my carrier that encouraged me to keep at it and further develop my potential.
What led you to become an ABAA member?
A: I was in air barrier consulting and testing and seeking to more connected and involved in the community.
Are you involved in any ABAA committees? Do you have any ABAA certifications?
A: I am on the QAP and Technical committees I have also been involved in others and several task groups. I am a licensed QAP Field Auditor and perusing my CABS certification
How long have you been in the industry?
A: ~9 Years
What major changes have you seen?
A: Generally, a lot of growth and more widespread understanding of air barriers. Locally, a lot more competition and newcomers to the market.
What traits or skills do you think are necessary to be able to succeed in your industry?
A: Aptitude for science, particularly thermodynamics. Flexibility and adaptability. Communication skills
Do you have any advice for anyone starting out in your field?
A: Study and understand the fundamentals of building science all else flows from them.
How much demand do you think there is for people in your profession?
A: There is a high demand in the Seattle and west coast markets. We have some of the more stringent building codes, particularly related to air barriers, and have had a long running construction boom.
What do you think the industry will look like in five or ten year’s time?
A: I hope to see more nation wide adoption of air barrier standards, including performance verification and whole building testing.