Brian Lovell has been working in the building automation systems (BAS) field for over 25 years in every role from technician to BAS contracting firm business owner in the Atlanta area. Experiencing the need for more trained BAS technicians first-hand, he led the development of the nation’s first BAS Associate’s Degree of Applied Sciences, and has disseminated that program to several dozen colleges around the country through his on-going work with the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy and others.
In response to the need for better training and definition of skills standards in the BAS industry, Brian co-founded the Association of Controls Professionals in 2014, and has served as its president. He holds various technical degrees, industry certifications and licensures, and post-graduate degrees in education.
Innovative and results-focused executive with remarkable history as a leader, educator, researcher, analyst, and productive manager with deep experience contributing to academia and nonprofit organizations. Serve as Executive Vice President of ACP, leading efforts to prepare a 21st century-ready building automation workforce. Direct research and assessments related to preparing skilled professionals for emerging automation jobs focused on building and renewable energy intelligent automation sectors. Maintain responsibility for strategic leadership, executive administration, outreach, research, program development, human resources management, communications, and marketing. Co-manage efforts on development of certifications and industry guidelines for building automation control systems professionals. As an ACP Principal, serves on the ACP Board of Directors.
Previously, served as the Associate Executive Director of the National Council for Science and the Environment, DC; launched University of Florida’s environmental horticultural program at Plant City, FL; and as the Executive Director at the Hillsborough Community College, FL led an award-winning sustainability program. Skilled business executive who rebuilt fledgling Institute of Florida Studies; drove exponential growth and remediated budget deficit by creating and implementing focused initiatives. Inspiring and dedicated talent developer; cultivated 42 entrepreneurs as lead mentor. Maintain vast professional network across government, academia, and nonprofits; and promotes federal policy initiatives by working with the United States Senators and House of Representatives members.
Mpho Bratton is the Program Director of the Association of Controls Professionals (ACP). She oversees the coordination and administration of all aspects of the ACP-STEM Project. This includes overall project management, data collection and maintenance, and implementing organizational protocols. She also collaborates on the design, development, implementation, and management of other ACP programs and services.
Before joining ACP, Mpho founded and managed Masai Consulting Limited, a boutique corporate consulting company which also provided management services to small to medium sized businesses.
Mpho is an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa. She joined Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa’s (incorporated as Deneys Reitz Inc.) as a candidate attorney in 2009 and was appointed as an associate in the firm’s Corporate, Mergers and Acquisitions Department in January 2011. She has advised on various corporate transactions and assisted with local and international mergers and acquisitions, with specific focus on the legal due diligence aspect of the transaction.
Mpho holds a LL.M. from Georgia State University, College of Law. She also holds a Law degree (L.LB) from the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa), and a BSc degree (Human Bioscience) from the University of Cape Town (South Africa).
Mpho is an avid reader and enjoys hiking and travelling.
Candace Haynes is the Career Pathway Development Coordinator of the Association of Controls Professionals (ACP). She establishes and cultivates relationships with K-12 systems, higher education colleges, and employers in high demand for BAS talent. This includes planning and executing workshops for counselors, weekly visits to schools, participating in career fairs and attending other community events within specific urban areas. As part of her role, she will assist the Program Director of ACP with the implementation of the short-term and long-term goals and objectives with the ACP-STEM Project.
Prior to holding this position with ACP, Candace was a Substitute Teacher and Substitute Paraprofessional in the Gwinnett County School System. During the summer season, she was a Pool Manager and Lifeguard with Swim Atlanta Pool Management Company.
Candace received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Communication Studies at the University of Georgia. While at the University, she worked as a Leasing Agent at Abbey West Apartments for all four years of her collegiate career.
Candace speaks at various youth events and enjoys dancing and fitness.
