In collaboration with Cortex Building Intelligence, The Ashforth Company, along with its construction division, A.P. Construction, and property management division, Albert B. Ashforth, Inc., hosted a presentation and panel discussion on AI-powered buildings. The program explored how AI-powered platforms are transforming building operations across the planning, design, construction, and post-occupancy phases to create more efficient, sustainable, and responsive buildings.
Guest speaker Scott Pokrywa, Chief Operating Officer of Cortex Building Intelligence, discussed the growing role of AI in commercial building management. He explained how AI-powered platforms turn real-time building data into actionable insights that optimize energy use, improve HVAC performance, and enable proactive, predictive maintenance, helping operators reduce costs and advance decarbonization goals without costly infrastructure upgrades.
Michael Mallett, Chief Operating Officer of A.P. Construction, moderated the discussion and kicked off the Q&A by highlighting the operational opportunities AI presents. He noted that much of the energy a typical commercial building wastes is operational rather than structural. “AI does not redesign the building,” he said. “It helps the building pay attention to how its systems are actually performing.”
Panelists discussed how platforms like Cortex use real-time building data to identify inefficiencies, improve equipment performance, and help operators make smarter decisions. David Marks, Senior Vice President & Director of Operations for Albert B. Ashforth, Inc., emphasized the value of real-time monitoring. “It helps us identify issues before they spiral into larger problems,” he said. He also shared several of the session’s key takeaways, noting that some of the biggest energy savings can simply come from shifting HVAC startup times, all while fulfilling lease obligations and maintaining the comfort and experience tenants expect. He also explained the value of monitoring real-time electrical demand, allowing building operators to proactively reduce energy consumption before reaching peak demand thresholds through the advanced notice provided by Cortex.
In addition to Scott Pokrywa, Michael Mallett, and David Marks, the panel also included Hank Ashforth, Executive Vice President of The Ashforth Company; Ingrid Voggel, Property Manager for 3001 Stamford Square; and Mike Alfano, Chief Building Engineer.
The program, held at Ashforth’s owned and managed 3001 Stamford Square Conference Center, was approved by AIA Connecticut (American Institute of Architects) for continuing education credits.
