November 18, 2020

Robert Austin, AIA/NJ Resident of the Year 2020 Copyright: Robert Austin

AIA New Jersey has Named Robert Austin Resident of the Year

Life safety is the essence of an architect’s responsibility. Rob Austin provides essential code guidance to architects across New Jersey via his insightful writing, presentations, and consultation.

Robert Austin at ICC Energy hearing Copyright: Robert Austin

For 20 years, Mr. Austin has been a Construction Official with New Jersey’s Department of Community Affairs. When Architects and Code Officials have questions regarding building codes and their interpretation, Mr. Austin is the person they contact for guidance. Along with his duties as a technical analyst for construction code development, Mr. Austin is responsible for much of the ‘Construction Code Communicator.’ This e-publication creates story narratives to explain building code applications. This invaluable resource has assisted countless Architects in New Jersey over the past couple of decades.

Robert Austin (second from left) at Central Jersey Building Officials meeting Copyright: Robert Austin

Mr. Austin has gone above and beyond his professional duties to become engaged with groups who impact the built environment. He currently serves as Chairman of the International Energy Conservation Code Commercial development Committee, and is a liaison to both the U.S. Department of Energy and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, where he helps develop construction codes for energy conservation. He has also worked with AIA New Jersey over the past few years giving dinner presentations to our AIA Chapters. Such topics include ‘Navigating through the Rehabilitation Sub-code’ and ‘2018 IBC updates to be adopted by New Jersey.’ These interactive meetings have showcased Mr. Austin’s technical knowledge and expertise of the UCC, IBC, and IRC. This year he has drafted Covid guidance documents issued by the DCA.

By Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, AIA NJ Advocacy Consultant | Posted in AIA-NJ News, Service Awards | Tagged: #AIA, #AIANJ, #ConstructionCodes, #ConstructionOfficial, #LifeSafety, #RobertAustin, #ServiceAwards, #USDOE, IECC, NJDCA | Comments (0)