Discover how ground source heat pump (GHP) systems, also known as geothermal, can revolutionize your HVAC offerings. Discover how GHP systems can reduce energy use by 40-70% while seamlessly integrating with standard HVAC equipment. This expert-led panel demystifies costs, installation, and maintenance, proving GHP’s scalability for any climate. Engage with evidence-based insights, debunk myths, and discover how geothermal can enhance your business.
Geoff Hoffer, CGD, CRD, CGI, AI, oversees the engineering design of systems and is responsible for project management and coordination of all field operations. On Aztech’s design-build project, he interfaces with customers, subcontractors and Aztech Geothermal technicians to ensure an efficient and quality installation. Geoff is primarily responsible for system design by conducting or approving building energy modeling, equipment selection and ground heat exchanger design. On larger GSHP projects, he is central to the development of design specifications, inspection protocol and system commissioning. His combined experience represents over has over 30 years’ in engineering and Operations Management.
Geoff is one of a limited number of Certified GeoExchange Designers (CGD) in NYS which is granted through the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). He’s also an International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA) Certified Residential Geothermal Designer (CRD), Certified Geothermal Inspector (CGI) and Accredited Geothermal Installer (AI), and has a Universal Certification by the EPA in refrigerant handling. Geoff holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
Amanda is the Northeast Sales Manager at WaterFurnace International for New York and the New England States. She works directly with contractors and Commercial Reps to grow water source and geothermal heat pump sales.
Amanda has been involved in the geothermal industry since 2007, when she worked as a contractor in Massachusetts. She also currently serves on the New England Geothermal Professionals.
Jason Filler is a recognized industry leader in the Albany, New York market, known for his deep expertise in geothermal and energy-efficient HVAC solutions. With a proven track record of supporting design engineers and building owners, Jason has played a key role in the successful implementation of heat pumps and domestic hot water heat pump systems across numerous K–12 schools and multifamily projects. His work in both new construction and retrofit geothermal projects has made him a go-to resource in the region.
An active member of the ASHRAE Northeast Chapter, Jason currently serves on the Board of Governors and as Research Promotion Co-Chair. He previously served as President-Elect and continues to champion innovation and sustainability through his leadership. Jason also contributes to the broader HVAC community as a member of ASHRAE Technical Committee 8.7, focused on Variable Refrigerant Flow systems.
Jason earned his B.S. in Business Administration from Nichols College and began his HVAC career in 2012 with Johnson Controls, where he led the Industrial Chiller Service Team. With over a decade of experience, Jason brings a well-rounded and strategic approach to energy efficiency, making him a trusted advisor for clients navigating today’s complex HVAC landscape.
Hal Smith is a seasoned entrepreneur and the driving force behind Halco Home Solutions, a business he established in 1984. With over four decades of relentless dedication, Hal has emerged as an industry trailblazer and visionary leader. Under his guidance, Halco has evolved into a multi-million-dollar enterprise, with a footprint spanning four strategic locations in Upstate New York.
Hal's ingenuity has put Halco at the forefront of the home performance contracting realm, earning it accolades and recognition for its contributions to electrification. Halco stands as one of the few companies in New York State equipped to handle the entire electrification process, including the integration of renewable energy sources. The electrification process demands a comprehensive range of skill sets to ensure a home is heat pump ready; often we must insulate and air seal a home to prepare for a heat pump installation in addition to utilizing our skilled plumbing, electrical, and HVAC technicians along the way. Hal takes immense pride in the fact that Halco occupies this unique position in the industry, where its expertise and capabilities not only bring this vision to life but also create lifelong customer relationships. This accomplishment is a testament to the company's core mission of delivering top-tier, high-efficiency energy solutions to both residential and commercial clientele, always with an unwavering commitment to quality, service, and sustainability.
Hal is closely affiliated with many organizations and is deeply involved with the community. He is the sitting president of the BPCA (Building Performance Contractors Association of NYS), where he also heads up the association’s mentorship program, supporting and guiding the next generation of industry professionals. On the national level, Hal serves on the Board of Directors of the Building Performance Association (BPA) and contributes to both its Policy Committee and Nominations Committee. Hal's previous roles include presiding over the Phelps Chamber of Commerce, chairing the Wayne, Ontario, Seneca, and Yates Counties Workforce Investment Board, and leading as President of the Phelps Business Council, among others.
In addition to his leadership roles, Hal boasts an impressive array of certifications and licenses. He is a certified BPI Healthy Home Evaluator, Building Analyst, Envelope Professional, and Manufactured Housing Specialist. Hal's credentials extend to NATE Heating Certification, IGSHPA Certification, and an array of other industry-specific licenses and certifications. Notably, he is a licensed electrician, a licensed master plumber, and a licensed HVAC contractor. Furthermore, Halco proudly offers four NYSDOL-approved apprenticeships in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and energy efficiency under Hal's stewardship. His comprehensive expertise serves as the foundation of Halco's continued success and reputation for excellence.