Engineer of the Year Awards

Since 2014, the Commercial Engineer of the Year Award has honored the unsung heroes of our industry—the engineers who keep commercial office buildings operating at peak performance. These professionals do more than manage systems—they innovate, problem-solve, and elevate the tenant experience through their expertise and commitment.

Now, we’re raising the bar. This prestigious award recognizes the extraordinary among us—those who consistently exceed expectations, setting new standards for operational excellence, sustainability, and leadership in the field.

Whether it’s maximizing energy efficiency, navigating complex system challenges, or enhancing the day-to-day comfort of tenants, these engineers aren’t just doing their jobs—they’re shaping the future of commercial real estate.

Engineers Who Go Above and Beyond

We’re not just seeking good engineers—we’re looking for exceptional individuals who consistently exceed expectations and elevate the standard of building operations. These are the professionals who take ownership of their work, think proactively, and lead by example in everything they do. Chief and Building Engineers who are:

• Innovators – They find creative, effective solutions to operational challenges and lead the charge in implementing sustainable practices.

• Problem-Solvers – When systems break down or emergencies arise, they step in with calm, confidence, and expertise.

• Leaders – Whether managing a team or mentoring junior staff, they foster a culture of excellence and accountability.

• Tenant-Focused – They go out of their way to ensure comfort, safety, and satisfaction for everyone in the building.

• Technically Skilled – They master evolving technologies and adapt quickly to the ever-changing landscape of building systems.

• Detail-Oriented and Reliable – They don’t just meet the requirements—they anticipate them. These engineers are the go-to professionals when it matters most.

In addition to the above, they must also meet the following qualifications

• Chief-Lead Engineer:

  • Minimum 3 years of experience at a supervisory level

  • Works for a current AOBA member firm

  • Serves as an engineer (or may cover multiple buildings)

  • Not at the Executive/Regional Engineer level

• Building Engineer:

  • Over 3 years of experience as a building engineer

  • Works for a current AOBA member firm

If you know someone who doesn’t just do their job—but does it with passion, precision, and purpose—nominate them. This award is reserved for those who inspire their teams, elevate their properties, and set a shining example for our industry.

Key Dates and Nomination Process

• June 1, 2025: Nominations open
  Start preparing your nomination and gather the following materials: 
  • Letters of recommendation from  
    1. Nominee's supervisor
    2. Property Manager
    3. Director of Engineering 
    4. Building tenant
• December 15, 2025: Submission Deadline
• January 5, 2026 - February 9, 2026: Judging Period
  • Review Process: Our Engineer of the Year committee will carefully evaluate all submitted materials. 

  • Building Tour and Interview: Nominees will be interviewed, and then lead judges on a building tour

• February 12 or 19, 2026: Commercial Awards Celebration 
  • Winners who achieve a minimum score of 70% will be officially announced and honored in front of their peers!

Past Award Recipients: 

2024

• Building Engineer of the Year: Ivan Cardenas, Brookfield Properties Operated by CBRE
• Chief Engineer of the Year: Mike Stokes, Stream Realty Partners

2023

2021

• Chief Engineer of the Year: Chris Lewis, CBRE Group
• Building Engineer of the Year: Craig Dabney, Monday Properties

2019

• Building Engineer of the Year: Joey Sanchez, JBG SMITH
• Chief/Lead Engineer of the Year: Brad Cleaveland, Transwestern

2018

• Maintenance Tech: Charley Chavez, Boston Properties
• Building Operating Engineer: Michael Morgan, Brookfield Properties
• Chief/Lead Engineer of the Year: Mike Keely, CBRE