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BAS: Five Global Trends That Will Define Your Strategy

William Attardi on July 17, 2026

Building automation is entering a smarter, more connected era, but outdated systems, rising energy costs and workforce gaps can quickly limit performance. This article explores five global trends shaping BAS and shows how AI, cloud-based platforms, integrated controls and intelligent retrofits can improve efficiency, strengthen resilience and protect long-term investments. Read it now to build a future-ready strategy before today’s limitations become tomorrow’s obstacles.

Combining the Dots by Craig DiLouie

William Attardi on June 26, 2026

Integration of lighting control devices and HVAC systems can reduce HVAC energy consumption by up to 20%–30%. This has made it a new front in the ongoing battle to maximize energy savings in commercial buildings as demand for electric power continues to increase with strong growth in infrastructure. While integration traditionally occurred using a building automation system (BAS) or on/off contact-closure interface, the introduction of Bluetooth NLC smart thermostats, interoperable with Bluetooth NLC sensors, promises to simplify integration and expand opportunities to save energy. Electrical Contractor – Combining the Dots

Remembering the Solemn Purpose of Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed on the last Monday in May to honor and mourn U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the armed forces. The holiday traces its roots to the years immediately following the American Civil War (1861–1865), which caused massive casualties—roughly 620,000 soldiers dead, about 2% of the U.S. population at the time. Communities across the North and South began spontaneously decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, wreaths, and flags, a practice that gave rise to the original name: Decoration Day. On May 5, 1868, Major General John A. Logan, commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR)—a powerful Union veterans’ organization—issued General Order No. 11. This proclaimed May 30, 1868, as a nationwide “Decoration Day” to honor those who died in the Civil War. After World War I, the holiday expanded to honor all American service members who died in any war, not just the Civil War.  In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act to create more three-day weekends for federal employees. This moved Memorial Day to the last Monday in May, effective in 1971, when it was also officially named “Memorial Day.” As one 1868 quote put it: “That Nation which respects and honors its dead, shall ever be respected and honored itself.”